Vote for Evil.

Pope Francis and the Dilemma of Voting for the "Lesser Evil": A Moral Quandary.

Pope Francis has often ventured into political and moral discussions that spark debate and reflection. One such recent controversy revolves around his comments urging Catholics to consider voting for the "lesser evil" when faced with imperfect political choices. With a hypothetical match-up between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump looming, some Catholics are left wondering: is voting for the lesser evil truly a moral option, or should the focus be on voting for the good, regardless of how rare it may seem?

The “Lesser Evil” Principle in Catholic Thought.

In Catholic social teaching, the concept of choosing the lesser evil is not entirely new. The Church recognizes that in a world marred by sin and imperfection, sometimes individuals are left to make difficult choices between flawed options. This principle is especially invoked in the realm of politics, where the ideal candidate may not always be available.

However, this idea is grounded in the understanding that, while all choices may not be ideal, some options may minimise harm or lead to a better outcome for the common good. When applied in the political arena, it implies that Catholics should weigh the policies, behaviours, and potential consequences of each candidate's actions and vote accordingly.

The Case of Harris vs. Trump: Who is the Lesser Evil?

The debate surrounding a hypothetical election between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump presents a significant challenge to the application of this principle. Both figures are divisive in their own right. Harris, representing the Democratic Party, often aligns with policies that some Catholics view as conflicting with Church teachings, particularly on issues like abortion. On the other hand, Trump, though having garnered support among conservative Catholics for his anti-abortion stance, presents moral concerns related to his past conduct, divisive rhetoric, and approach to governance.

The question for many is: who represents the "lesser evil"? Both candidates present a mix of policy positions and personal behaviour that can be problematic depending on the observer's moral and political compass.

Shouldn’t the Pope Recommend Voting for Good?

For some Catholics, the idea of voting for the lesser evil feels like a concession to a flawed political system. Shouldn't the Pope, they argue, encourage people to vote for what is good rather than choosing between varying degrees of moral compromise? After all, in a faith centred on the triumph of good over evil, even the “lesser” evil remains, at its core, evil.

Pope Francis’ emphasis on the lesser evil does not imply that Catholics should embrace mediocrity or settle for immoral leadership. Rather, it reflects the reality that in a world filled with moral complexity, clear-cut options are not always available. The Pope’s guidance is about pragmatic responsibility, urging Catholics to weigh the potential outcomes of their vote and to act in a way that, though imperfect, seeks the best possible future for the greater good.

Yet, this approach raises a deeper question: what happens when Catholics feel that no candidate adequately represents the good? Should they abstain from voting altogether? Vote for a third-party candidate who more closely aligns with their values, even if they stand little chance of winning? These are the questions that remain at the heart of the debate.

Voting Beyond the Binary: A Call to Conscience.

For Catholics struggling with this decision, the Church’s teaching on voting goes beyond simply choosing between candidates. The Church calls on Catholics to form their consciences, to weigh the issues thoughtfully, and to consider the common good. While the lesser evil principle provides a framework for dealing with imperfect choices, Catholics are encouraged to remain true to their conscience.

This may mean different things to different people. Some may feel morally compelled to vote for one of the main candidates, believing that the outcome will lead to less harm. Others may decide that casting a vote for a third-party candidate, or not voting at all, is the better reflection of their values. Ultimately, the Pope's call is not a prescription for a specific candidate, but an invitation to engage with the political process conscientiously and with moral integrity.

In Conclusion: A Vote for Good.

The controversy over the Pope’s recommendation to vote for the lesser evil reflects a larger tension in modern political life. While the concept may help navigate complex decisions, the deeper challenge lies in maintaining a commitment to the good, even when it seems elusive. Catholics, and indeed all voters, are called to participate in the political process not just as a civic duty, but as a reflection of their moral and ethical beliefs.

In the end, the pursuit of the good, however difficult, must remain the central aim of any voter. Whether faced with choices like Harris or Trump, or any other political contest, the goal is not merely to minimise harm but to actively seek justice, dignity, and the common good - ideals that transcend political calculations. The Pope’s guidance on voting for the lesser evil should, in this light, serve as a reminder of the ongoing responsibility to strive for what is right, even when the path is uncertain.