Former U.S. President Donald Trump’s attendance at Pope Francis’s funeral on April 26, 2025, in Vatican City sparked controversy due to perceived breaches of protocol and decorum.
One of the primary points of contention was Trump’s choice of attire. While traditional expectations for such solemn Catholic ceremonies dictate that male attendees wear black suits, Trump opted for a navy blue suit paired with a light blue tie. This sartorial choice stood in contrast to the predominantly black attire worn by other dignitaries, including his wife, Melania Trump, who adhered to the traditional dress code by wearing a black ensemble with a veil. Although the Vatican confirmed that there was no strict dress code for the funeral, many observers viewed Trump’s attire as a deviation from customary norms
Adding to the controversy, Trump was observed using his mobile phone during the funeral proceedings. A video circulated on social media platforms showed him texting during the service, a gesture that many interpreted as disrespectful to the solemnity of the occasion .
Further scrutiny arose from Trump’s behavior during the ceremony. Reports indicated that he faced the wrong direction during certain parts of the service, leading to criticism from viewers and commentators who perceived this as a lack of attentiveness or understanding of the proceedings .
In a lighthearted moment that nonetheless drew attention, Trump joked about his aspirations to become the next pope, stating that he would be his “number one choice” for the position. He later clarified that he had no specific preference but expressed support for New York Archbishop Timothy Dolan, who played a prominent role in the funeral service .
These incidents at the funeral reignited discussions about Trump’s past interactions with Pope Francis. In 2016, during his presidential campaign, Trump had a public disagreement with the Pope over immigration policies, leading to mutual criticisms .
Overall, Trump’s actions during Pope Francis’s funeral were met with mixed reactions, with critics viewing them as breaches of protocol and decorum, while supporters dismissed them as misunderstandings or overreactions.
