Vice President JD Vance has come to the defense of President Donald Trump after backlash over a controversial post on Truth Social, where Trump shared an AI-generated image of himself dressed as the pope, just days after the death of Pope Francis.

Bill Kristol, a former chief of staff to Vice President Dan Quayle during the Bush administration, criticized the post on X (formerly Twitter), asking Vance, “Hey, @JDVance, you fine with this disrespect and mocking of the Holy Father?”

Vance, who converted to Catholicism in 2019, responded firmly, stating, “As a general rule, I’m fine with people telling jokes and not fine with people starting stupid wars that kill thousands of my countrymen.” Vance’s remark was a reference to Kristol’s previous support for the Iraq War, which has been a point of contention for many.

The post, which depicted Trump as a pontiff, also garnered widespread disapproval from various figures, including religious groups. The Catholic Bishops of New York State expressed their anger, posting, “There is nothing clever or funny about this image, Mr. President. We just buried our beloved Pope Francis and the cardinals are about to enter a solemn conclave to elect a new successor of St. Peter. Do not mock us.”

The conclave to elect Pope Francis' successor is set to begin on May 7, following the late pontiff’s passing in late April.

In response to the image, Rep. Ted Lieu (D-Calif.) wrote, “As a Catholic, I take great offense to Donald Trump mocking Catholics,” before adding, “I wish Trump would focus on lowering prices instead. The American economy had negative GDP growth last quarter. That’s what he should be focused on instead of making fun of Catholics.”

Earlier this week, Vice President Vance shared a personal moment, recounting his meeting with Pope Francis the day before his death. “I was one of the last people to talk to him. I just take it as a great honor and a sign from God to remember that you never know when your last day on this Earth is,” Vance said at the time.

Meanwhile, Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) also showed support for Trump’s post, stating, “Seeing is believing! A picture is worth a thousand words….Glad to report there is very positive reception and strong momentum for President Trump to be the next Pope. But I will be the first to admit there has been some resistance.”

Graham added, “Must keep your head down and plow forward — can’t let the naysayers win the day. Next week is crucial as the papal conclave convenes… More updates to come!”

This latest controversy highlights the growing division over Trump’s actions and the response of his supporters and critics alike.



By WafricNews Desk.