<< I have not set foot in a catholic church for decades >>
... then you are not a Catholic.
Pope isnt Communist. Hes admotely against Liberation Theology in Latin America. Thats Marxism plus Catholicism. I think he just wants to help poor people not steal from the rich and give to the poor. Thats not his ideas -- unless hes radically changed in the last few months but I doubt it.
Also id expect JP2 to support Bush simpply because the Vatican has denounced John Kerry for supporting Gay Marriage and Abortion (hes on their Do not give communion lists heh)