CNN says "Pope Francis dove into the whirlpool of US politics"

Pope Francis immediately dove into the whirlpool of U.S. politics on Wednesday using his first direct address to the nation to weigh in on deeply divisive issues including climate change, Cuba, marriage and immigration reported CNN. The pontiff, speaking before 11,000 ticketed guests at an elaborate welcoming ceremony on South Lawn of the White House, signaled he will not steer clear of controversial issues during his six-day visit.

He climbed aboard an open-sided Popemobile later in the morning to parade before tens of thousands of cheering people lining the streets around the White House. In remarks delivered slowly in accented English at the White House, Francis said he was ready to listen to the "hopes and dreams of the American people" and to offer guidance to those charged with shaping the nation's political future "in fidelity to its founding principles." 

And in comments that could antagonize Republicans, Francis endorsed President Barack Obama's efforts on climate change and rebuilding ties with Cuba after more than half a century of estrangement.