Donald Trump has come under fire online for donning a blue suit at Pope Francis' funeral, sparking debates over whether he violated Vatican protocol. On Saturday, April 26, the 78-year-old president, accompanied by First Lady Melania Trump, attended the pontiff's solemn rites. Soon after the ceremony's photos and footage emerged, Trump's attire choice became the target of online backlash.
One viral post labeled him an "embarrassment" for his outfit selection, while another accused him of disrespect. "He always strives to be the center of attention," read the latter post. Indeed, Trump, clad in a midnight-blue suit, matching tie, and adorned with an American flag pin, stood out amidst the sea of world leaders gathered in St. Peter's Square, Vatican City, particularly in the front row. Yet, he was not alone in his choice.
Though the president was in the minority with his blue ensemble, several other attendees also opted for suits in hues other than black, along with ties in bold shades of blue, red, pink, and more. However, despite the online uproar, Trump and the colorfully dressed attendees did not necessarily breach protocol. The Vatican does not specify a funeral dress code on its website, and an insider informed PEOPLE that attire for the April 26 ceremony was a matter of personal discretion.
"Attendees wore what they deemed appropriate for such a grave occasion," a Vatican source noted. Nevertheless, guests donning non-black formalwear faced criticism akin to Trump's. Both Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and former President Joe Biden were also accused of disrespect online for going tie-less and wearing a blue tie, respectively.
Conversely, Prince William escaped scrutiny despite donning a navy suit. Trump first announced his and Melania's (55) intention to attend Pope Francis' funeral shortly after the Catholic Church leader passed away on Monday, April 21, at the age of 88. "Melania and I will attend Pope Francis' funeral in Rome," Trump wrote in a Truth Social post on April 21. "We eagerly anticipate being there!"
Prior to confirming his attendance, Trump posted on Truth Social, "Rest in Peace, Pope Francis! May God bless him and all who cherished him!"
