The U.S. President stood out – and not in a good way.
Wherever Donald Trump goes, he rarely blends into the background – and Pope Francis’ funeral was no exception.
The 78-year-old former president has drawn heavy criticism online for what many are calling a disrespectful wardrobe choice during the late pontiff’s farewell ceremony on April 26.
Leaders and dignitaries from around the globe—including presidents, prime ministers, and high-ranking church officials—gathered in Vatican City to honor Pope Francis, who died on Easter Monday.
The list of attendees included Prince William, UK Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and Irish President Michael D. Higgins.
A solemn outdoor funeral mass is currently taking place in St. Peter’s Square. True to his modest nature, Pope Francis had requested a simple sendoff. He will be laid to rest at the Basilica of St. Mary Major in a plain wooden casket lined with zinc, foregoing the traditional three-tiered burial boxes.
Donald Trump and First Lady Melania were seen pausing in front of the coffin to pay their respects. However, when the couple took their seats among other world leaders—nearly all of whom wore dark clothing in line with Catholic funeral traditions—Trump’s appearance stood out.
While the crowd adhered to custom by dressing in black as a sign of mourning and respect, Trump showed up in a blue suit, a decision that sparked backlash online.
Many viewers following the live broadcast took to social media to express their disapproval, accusing the former president of poor taste and seeking attention during a solemn occasion.
One user on X (formerly Twitter) questioned, “Why is Donald Trump not in black like everyone else at the Pope’s funeral?”
Another wrote: “Typical Trump – wearing a blue suit just to stand out. No respect.”
Others chimed in with similar sentiments, calling the move “classless” and “inappropriate.”
“Watching the BBC feed and Trump’s the only one in blue. Everyone else understood the assignment. Unbelievable,” one post read.
Another critic added: “Clearly wants to be the center of attention—showing up in blue while everyone else is in black. Disrespectful.”
Some were quick to point out the irony, noting Trump’s past criticism of Zelenskyy’s attire during a White House meeting, where he had mocked the Ukrainian leader for not dressing formally.
“Funny how Trump slammed Zelenskyy for dressing casually, and now he can’t even wear black to a funeral,” one post read. “Does he not own a black suit?”
Another added: “Zelenskyy should ask Trump why he’s the odd one out at the Pope’s funeral this time.”
After the ceremony at St. Peter’s Square, the Pope’s body will be taken through the streets of Rome in a final break from tradition. According to Vatican sources, a group of poor and marginalized people—whom Francis consistently advocated for—will stand outside the basilica to honor his memory one last time before the burial.