Vatican cancels live TV broadcast of Biden greeting pope

By NICOLE WINFIELD
Associated Press

ROME (AP) — The Vatican has abruptly canceled the planned live broadcast of President Joe Biden’s meeting with Pope Francis. The live broadcast of Biden’s visit was trimmed to just the arrival of his motorcade in the courtyard of the Apostolic Palace. Cancelled was the live coverage of Biden, the second Catholic U.S. president, greeting Francis and the two starting their private talks. A Vatican spokesman said the plan reflected procedures put into place during the pandemic. Reporters who cover the White House and the Vatican complained. The audience was being closely monitored since U.S. bishops are due to meet in a few weeks for their annual fall convention. Conservatives contend that Biden’s support for abortion rights should disqualify him from receiving Communion.