Statement from Denise Murphy McGraw, National Co-Chair, Catholics Vote Common Good

WASHINGTON, DC, October 13, 2026:

On behalf of Catholics Vote Common Good, and in solidarity with the world’s 1.4 billion Catholics, we hold our American pope, Pope Leo XIV, in prayer following the announcement of his lung cancer diagnosis.

Doctors removed the lower lobe of his right lung during surgery at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital today. We are grateful that the Vatican reports the operation was successful and without complications, and we pray for his healing and recovery.

For those of us who have found hope in his leadership, this news is deeply personal. A cancer diagnosis brings fear and uncertainty to any family. Even as Pope Leo carries the immense responsibilities of his ministry, he deserves the time, care and space to heal, surrounded by love and sustained by prayer. We hold his family, his caregivers and all who are close to him in our hearts.

At a time when so many people are facing war, poverty, division and profound uncertainty, we need his leadership more than ever. We need a moral voice that calls us to recognize the dignity of every person, care for our neighbors and pursue peace. His ministry reminds us that our responsibilities to one another reach across national borders, political differences and faith traditions.

We ask our members and people everywhere, whatever their faith tradition or whether they practice a faith at all, to keep Pope Leo XIV in their thoughts. For those who pray, please join us in praying for his strength and healing, for the medical professionals caring for him and for every person confronting cancer.

May the Holy Father feel the love of the world he serves. May God grant him comfort, renewed strength and a full recovery.