Rick Santorum and the Preferential Option for the Poor
Catholic candidate Rick Santorum attacking Rick Perry for allowing immigrant students in Texas to attend college at the in-state tuition rates afforded to all Texans:
SANTORUM: And why should they be given preferential treatment as an illegal in this country?
From Faithful Citizenship, the U.S. Catholic Bishops’ guide to civic engagement:
Option for the Poor and Vulnerable
While the common good embraces all, those who are weak, vulnerable, and most in need deserve preferential concern. A basic moral test for our society is how we treat the most vulnerable in our midst.
…
This preferential option for the poor and vulnerable includes all who are marginalized in our nation and beyond–unborn children, persons with disabilities, the elderly and terminally ill, and victims of injustice and oppression.