Donald Trump faced backlash on Saturday for allegedly “disrespecting” protocol during Pope Francis’s funeral.
World leaders and top dignitaries gathered in Rome over the weekend to say their final goodbyes to the Pope at the Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica, following a requiem mass at St Peter’s Basilica.
More than 200,000 people are believed to have attended the funeral procession at St Peter’s Square, honoring the former head of the Catholic Church, who passed away at the age of 88 after suffering a stroke and heart complications. Around 50 world leaders, along with royalty from several countries, were present.
Pope Francis died last Monday, April 21, just a day after he appeared publicly to greet people from the balcony of St Peter’s Basilica.
Tributes quickly came from across the globe. Francis was seen as a progressive pope — something that, on its own, brought him criticism from some — but he remained a much-loved and inspiring leader who kept working right up until the end.
Among the world leaders who came to honor the late leader of Vatican City was President Donald Trump, who was joined by First Lady Melania Trump.
A blue suit?
Donald Trump couldn’t even be respectful and wear a black suit to Pope Francis’ funeral like the rest of world leaders.
He always has to stick out and try and be the center of attention.
— Art Candee 🍿🥤 (@ArtCandee) April 26, 2025
It’s probably no surprise that Trump still found a way to stir up controversy, even on a day that should have been simple and respectful.
The POTUS faced criticism online for several things during Pope Francis’ funeral, with one moment even being called a “disgrace.” Some of his harsher critics also claimed that Trump only showed up to try and win favor with Catholic voters.
One major point of criticism was Trump’s outfit. The 78-year-old chose to wear a navy blue suit instead of the traditional all-black attire usually expected at a Catholic funeral.
To be fair, Trump wasn’t the only one who picked blue — Prince William also wore a dark blue suit. Still, a lot of people online saw Trump’s choice as a sign of disrespect.
Donald Trump is a disgrace. going to sleep at the pope funeral. pic.twitter.com/nDvJ12kay7
— Don Salmon (@dijoni) April 27, 2025
Not only that, but Trump also caught criticism for reportedly stepping over the carpeted area around Pope Francis’ coffin. Attendees were expected to avoid stepping on the carpet beneath the coffin, as it represents the “holy ground” reserved for the late pontiff.
According to reports, both Trump and Melania’s shoes touched the sacred carpet, while other guests respected the rule and stayed clear.
But honestly, that wasn’t the worst of it. Trump was also accused of using his phone, dozing off, and even chewing gum — all while sitting in the front row during the funeral ceremony.
At one point, Trump was seen leaning forward, typing something on his phone, then quickly putting it away. Later, he started chewing gum and eventually seemed to drift into a light nap, shutting his eyes and letting his mouth hang open.
One critic wrote on Twitter: “Trump at the Pope’s funeral. No traditional black suit, hunched over and sleeping! Just blasphemous!”
Another added: “Donald Trump couldn’t even be respectful and wear a black suit to Pope Francis’ funeral like the rest of world leaders. He always has to stick out and try and be the center of attention.”
A third person chimed in: “Of course Trump is the only jacka** wearing a blue suit and blue tie to a funeral….such an embarrassment.”
