Pope Leo XIV has expressed deep disappointment over the approval of medically assisted suicide legislation in Illinois, his home state. The Pope, who grew up in Chicago, said he had urged Governor JB Pritzker not to sign the bill, but the governor proceeded with the enactment on December 12.
The law, known as 'Deb's Law', is named after Deb Robertson, a terminally ill Illinois resident who advocated for the measure. Governor Pritzker cited the stories of suffering patients as a key reason for his decision. The Pope, speaking at his residence in Castel Gandolfo, reiterated Catholic teaching that life must be protected from conception to natural death.
Chicago Cardinal Blase Cupich also appealed to the governor, but to no avail. The state's six Catholic dioceses have criticised the law, warning it puts Illinois on a dangerous path. Eleven other states and Washington DC already permit assisted suicide, with Delaware set to join them in 2026 and seven more states considering similar legislation.
Pope Leo urged reflection on the sacredness of life, especially during the Christmas season, and expressed hope that respect for life would grow. The Pope's comments highlight ongoing tensions between religious teachings and evolving end-of-life legislation in the United States.
