While the White House tribute was respectful, Pope Francis' death comes at a time of ideological divergence between the Trump administration and the Vatican—particularly with Vice President J.D. Vance, a Catholic convert whose public commentary has often clashed with Francis' theological outlook.
President Donald Trump ordered flags across the United States to be flown at half-staff "as a mark of respect for the memory" of Pope Francis following his death on Monday. "He was a good man. Worked hard. He loved the world," said President Trump during his comments before the annual White House Easter Egg Roll event. Pope Francis, the 266th pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church, died at the age of 88 early Monday morning in Rome.
Vice President JD Vance sent his condolences to Christians around the world after the passing of Pope Francis on Easter Monday. During their Easter Sunday meeting, the pontiff gave Vance what looked to be Easter gifts for his children, blessed rosary beads for each member of his family, and a Vatican tie.
