Donald Trump once again found himself embroiled in controversy during the funeral of Pope Francis this past weekend.
As world leaders, dignitaries, and members of royalty convened at St. Peter’s Basilica and the Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica in Rome to pay their respects to the late pontiff, who died at the age of 88 due to a stroke and heart complications, Trump’s behavior attracted significant criticism on social media.
Over 200,000 mourners gathered in St. Peter’s Square to honor Pope Francis, whose progressive leadership endeared him to millions globally.
Despite the gravity of the occasion, some attendees, including Trump, became subjects of controversy.
Accompanied by First Lady Melania Trump, he faced immediate backlash upon his arrival. In contrast to the majority of attendees who donned traditional all-black attire in accordance with Catholic mourning customs, Trump chose to wear a navy blue suit complemented by a bright blue tie. Although he was not the only individual to select a dark blue outfit—Prince William also wore a similar hue—many online perceived Trump’s fashion decision as disrespectful and a deliberate attempt to attract attention.
The criticism continued unabated. As the ceremony unfolded, Trump was observed stepping onto the carpet surrounding Pope Francis’s coffin—a revered area symbolizing holy ground, which is traditionally left untouched out of respect for the deceased pontiff. Reports suggested that while the majority of world leaders prudently avoided stepping onto the carpet, Trump and Melania crossed this boundary, inciting further outrage.
Moreover, Trump’s conduct during the service faced significant scrutiny. Observers noted him using his phone, chewing gum, and at one moment, seemingly dozing off with his eyes closed and mouth agape. Footage of these actions quickly spread online, eliciting condemnation from those who believed the former president’s behavior was grossly inappropriate for the solemn occasion.
Reactions on social media were immediate and harsh. One individual commented, ‘Trump at the Pope’s funeral. He did not wear the customary black suit, appeared slouched, and seemed to be dozing off! This is nothing short of blasphemy!’ Another user added, ‘Naturally, Trump is the sole individual donning a blue suit and blue tie at a funeral… what a disgrace.’
Some commentators argued that Trump’s presence was politically motivated, aimed at gaining favor with Catholic voters rather than being a genuine expression of grief.
Although a few defended Trump by pointing out that other leaders also donned navy suits, the overall response underscored significant dissatisfaction with his demeanor during a moment that called for respect and humility.
In a ceremony characterized by deep sorrow and solemn customs, Trump’s conduct led many to wonder if he truly understood the significance of the event—or, more concerning to some, if he simply lacked concern.
What is your perspective? Was Trump’s behavior at Pope Francis’s funeral disrespectful, or are critics overanalyzing the situation?
