Pope Leo condemns Illinois governor’s legalization of assisted suicide

Pope Leo XIV publicly criticized Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker for signing a law legalizing assisted suicide in the state. 

The pope called the decision disappointing and reaffirmed the Catholic Church’s long-standing opposition to the practice. 

Speaking to reporters outside his residence in Castel Gandolfo, Italy, the pope said, “Unfortunately … he decided to sign that bill. I’m very disappointed about that.” 

The law, signed by Pritzker earlier this month, will take effect in September. It allows adults with a diagnosed terminal illness with six months or less to live to request a prescription to end their lives early. Illinois became the 12th state to legalize assisted suicide with Pritzker’s approval. 

Leo, who is originally from Chicago, met with the Democratic governor at the Vatican last month. He said the two discussed the legislation directly, and he raised concerns with Pritzker before the bill became law. 

“I very explicitly spoke with the governor about the bill,” the pope said. 

The Catholic Church teaches human life is sacred from conception until natural death, and thus opposes assisted suicide, abortion and capital punishment. Church leaders have consistently warned assisted suicide laws place vulnerable people at risk and undermine the moral responsibility to care for the sick rather than speed up death. 

The Catholic Conference of Illinois staunchly opposed the assisted suicide legislation. 

“The unintended consequences that arise from legalized assisted suicide include a large range of possible abuses,” it said in a statement. “It is alarming that in states with legalized suicide, there are documented cases of people being denied life-saving medical treatment by insurance companies in lieu of the much cheaper option of life-ending drugs.” 

The statement added, “Assisted suicide is not the compassionate solution for those who are suffering,” instead arguing palliative care and improved mental healthcare are the proper solutions to end-of-life care. 

The American Medical Association also opposes assisted suicide. 

“Physician assisted suicide is fundamentally incompatible with the physician’s role as healer, would be difficult or impossible to control, and would provide serious societal risks,” it warns. 

Leo’s remarks stood out because popes typically avoid direct commentary on local political decisions. His comments signaled a willingness to speak plainly when civil authorities adopt policies in conflict with core moral teachings.

Photo credit: Gov. J.B. Pritzker