The Catholic Church views voting as both a civil right and, ordinarily, a moral responsibility directed toward the common good.

• Citizens have a right to participate. Democratic systems should enable citizens—without discrimination—to take part freely in public affairs and elect political leaders. Catholics should use their vote to promote the common good. 1
• Participation is more than voting. The Church encourages informed involvement in political life, including advocacy, public service, communicating with officials, and working for justice. Even people unable to vote retain the right to make their voices heard. 2 3
• Voting must follow a well-formed conscience. The Church does not endorse candidates or tell Catholics which party to support. Each voter must study issues, assess candidates, and apply Catholic moral teaching rather than party loyalty. 4 5
• No single issue is sufficient. Catholics should consider the whole range of moral and social concerns, including human life, human dignity, justice, peace, religious freedom, care for the vulnerable, and the environment. One issue should not automatically eclipse every other responsibility. 6 7
• There are moral limits. A well-formed conscience cannot support a political program or law that contradicts fundamental truths of faith and morals. When every available option is imperfect, voters must seek the choice that best advances the common good and avoids cooperation in evil; the supplied texts do not provide a simple universal formula for every election. 8 7

In short, Catholic teaching encourages Catholics to vote, but insists that voting be informed, morally responsible, free from partisan absolutism, and ordered toward the dignity of every human person and the common good.