Pope Francis turns down lunch with Boehner and McConnell, eats with the homeless instead

This late Tuesday afternoon, Pope Francis landed on U.S. soil for the first time, beginning his 6-day visit that will focus on his concern for the poor and other socio-economic issues.

The visit launched one of the largest security operations in U.S. history, jointly run by the U.S. Secret Service and the F.B.I., involving federal, state and city law enforcement. Officials stress that they haven’t detected any specific terrorist threat to the pope, but better safe than sorry is always a good policy.

But as usual, Pope Francis is already creating some uncomfortable situations for U.S. politicians.

From CNN:

In a highly symbolic moment, Francis will pass on lunch with lawmakers after addressing Congress and will dine instead with homeless people in Washington…

Francis’ past calls for migrants to be respected could draw him into the heated debate on illegal immigration that is roiling the 2016 presidential campaign. Warnings by Francis of the need to tackle climate change have angered some Republicans. The Catholic Church’s opposition to same-sex marriage and abortion meanwhile puts him at odds with many Democrats and the Obama administration.

Papal experts say that rather than openly rebuking the U.S. way of life, Francis will seek to persuade America that its great wealth confers special responsibility.

Now what kind of commie gobbledygook is that?

Featured image via Flickr

Sky Palma

Before launching DeadState back in 2012, Sky Palma has been blogging about politics, social issues and religion for over a decade. He lives in Los Angeles and also enjoys Brazilian jiu jitsu, chess, music and art.

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