Durbin’s decision to decline the Chicago award has the ‘look and feel’ of a negotiated solution. (“Say, Dick, I’m in a bind. Could you…”) The interesting question is: Who was involved in the process? Other American bishops, wanting to ward off a fight at the next USCCB meeting, most likely.

Was Pope Leo briefed, and expecting the announcement? If so, that puts his remarks in a different light (although they still don’t look good).