Can't win

Two years ago, the University of Notre Dame was criticized by some Roman Catholics for inviting President Barack Obama to speak at commencement. Obama, who supports abortion rights, was criticized for speaking at an institution of the Catholic Church, which considers abortion "an intrinsic evil."

This time, it's House Speaker John Boehner and Catholic University of America, in Washington, D.C., on the hot seat. Boehner is to give the university's commencement address May 21.

In response, more than 75 professors at Catholic University and other Catholic colleges criticized the Republican lawmaker, a Roman Catholic, for GOP budget proposals they say violate his faith by harming the poor and elderly.

"Your record in support of legislation to address the desperate needs of the poor is among the worst in Congress," the letter says. "This fundamental concern should have great urgency for Catholic policy makers. Yet, even now, you work in opposition to it."

In a particularly ironic twist, the letter calls Boehner's proposals to cut funding for Medicare, Medicaid and the Women, Infants and Children nutrition program "anti-life."

It's a welcome change to see a Roman Catholic politician challenged for a position on an issue other than abortion.

- The Post-Standard, Syracuse, N.Y.