Joe Biden’s “inappropriate” behavior at Pope Francis’ funeral sparks outrage

“No longer serving as heads of state, he and his wife took their seats toward the back of the foreign dignitaries section.”

Upon his arrival, Biden was spotted snapping selfies with fellow officials—an act that many viewed as out of place given the gravity of the occasion. The moment quickly sparked backlash on social media, with numerous onlookers voicing their disapproval.

“Snapping selfies at the Pope’s funeral? Completely inappropriate,” one outraged viewer commented. Another echoed the sentiment, saying, “Taking selfies at a funeral shows a deep lack of respect.”

“Wow, taking selfies at a funeral? That’s seriously inappropriate. There’s a time and place for everything,” one viewer remarked.

The criticism didn’t stop there. Another user on X added, “Snapping pictures at such a solemn event—especially of the Pope—is beyond disrespectful.”

“Did you notice? Biden is turning the Pope’s funeral into a photo opportunity, critics say — even posing for pictures with dignitaries like Ugandan MP Thomas Tayebwa.”

Tayebwa shared poignant moments from the funeral on X, including a powerful photo alongside President Biden. In his tribute, he wrote: “Together with my sister, the Honorable Anitah Among, we stand with world leaders and the faithful as we lay to rest His Holiness Pope Francis today at the Vatican.”

“I’m deeply grateful for the chance to bid farewell to my spiritual leader—a guiding light who profoundly touched my life. May his soul find eternal peace,” Tayebwa said with heartfelt reverence.

Pope Francis passed away on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88.
The Vatican later confirmed that the beloved pontiff suffered a fatal stroke. His passing marks the end of a deeply impactful papacy that resonated with millions around the world.

Upon hearing the news of the Holy Father’s passing, President Biden took to Instagram to share a heartfelt tribute. Accompanying a poignant photo of himself in a reflective moment with Pope Francis, he conveyed his profound sorrow and extended his deepest condolences, honoring the memory and legacy of His Holiness.

“He was truly one of a kind,” she said, reflecting on his legacy. She went on to say that Pope Francis will be remembered as one of the most influential and significant leaders of our era. “Knowing him has made me a better person,” she added with heartfelt admiration.

Biden’s High-Profile Moments That Stirred the Internet
President Biden’s appearance at Pope Francis’s funeral wasn’t the only moment that set social media buzzing. From a widely circulated video of him marching — which fueled wild speculation about a “fake Melania” — to his presence at the late Pope’s service, these photos and videos sparked intense online chatter. Take a look at the viral moments that had everyone talking.

On April 25, 2025, Donald and Melania Trump were seen departing the United States en route to Rome for the funeral of Pope Francis. However, photos of the couple boarding their plane quickly went viral online, fueling widespread speculation and stirring a flurry of commentary across social media.

Some internet users sparked speculation after noticing that the woman seen alongside the President didn’t quite resemble Melania Trump. Her appearance and body language seemed noticeably different, prompting questions about her true identity.

The “Fake Melania” theory quickly gained momentum, with videos and photos circulating widely on social media. One user commented, “That’s definitely not Melania—her hair is too light, and she’s not wearing heels. Melania always wears heels.”

Another observer shared a similar opinion, claiming that the real First Lady would never be seen in flats and would almost certainly not accompany her husband abroad for an entire trip. Someone else chimed in, saying, “That doesn’t look like her at all—her forehead and jawline are completely different.”

Adding to the speculation, another commenter pointed out that the woman in the video moved far too casually, lacking Melania’s signature stiff and poised presence—only fueling the ongoing rumors of a possible body double.

Brushing off swirling internet rumors, the Trumps touched down in Rome and solemnly attended the late Pontiff’s funeral on April 26. Melania Trump stood out with quiet grace, dressed in a striking traditional black ensemble—her long, tailored coat exuding elegance, while a delicate black lace veil framed her face in respectful tribute.

She completed her ensemble with elegant lace gloves and a delicate cross necklace, adding a touch of grace and reverence to her timeless, occasion-appropriate look.

Donald looked distinguished in a classic navy blue suit paired with a crisp white shirt and a deep blue tie. A small American flag pin on his lapel subtly showcased his patriotism.

The couple exuded calm elegance and quiet respect throughout the ceremony, their solemn expressions underscoring the significance of the occasion. Photographs highlighted Melania’s composed grace and Donald’s attentive presence, with both fully immersed in the moment.

Following her public appearance, social media buzzed with speculation, as users questioned whether the woman seen was truly the First Lady. “Melania looks different. Is that really her?” one user asked. Another chimed in, “What happened to her face?” while a third remarked, “Her face looks like it’s melting.” The internet remains unconvinced, fueling ongoing debate and intrigue.

Following the funeral, Donald and Melania Trump made a solemn, private pilgrimage to St. Peter’s Basilica to honor Pope Francis. In a poignant moment of reflection, the couple stood before the late pontiff’s coffin, silently flanked by two Swiss Guards in their strikingly ornate uniforms.

A photograph from the visit captures Melania beside her husband, dressed in a traditional mourning ensemble—an elegant black coat, a delicate veil, and high heels—her attire a symbol of grace and solemn respect.

Lost in quiet contemplation, the pair appeared deeply moved. The soaring grandeur and breathtaking artistry of the basilica served as a majestic, reverent setting for their tribute.

During the solemn three-hour Catholic Mass, attended by countless worshippers and a host of world leaders, participants were invited to exchange a traditional “sign of peace” by shaking hands. As the ritual swept through the congregation, a video captured the U.S. president observing quietly, initially holding back from participating.

According to forensic lip reader Nicola Hickling, it was the First Lady, Melania Trump, who gently nudged him into action. Speaking to The Daily Mail, Hickling revealed that Melania appeared to encourage her husband to take part—prompting him to start by shaking her hand after he seemed reluctant.

She leaned in close and whispered with quiet urgency, “You should do it.” Then, for emphasis, she repeated the words. At her gentle but firm encouragement, Donald finally extended his hand toward French President Emmanuel Macron. “Okay,” he said, yielding to the moment and engaging in the traditional gesture of goodwill.

That day carried deeper meaning for Melania as well. In a heartfelt Instagram post shared on April 27, she expressed gratitude for the birthday wishes she received and reflected on the profound experience of the day.

“I had the honor of attending Pope Francis’ funeral on my birthday,” she wrote, “where I prayed for healing for those who are suffering and for peace across the world.”

As Melania solemnly marked the day, the Vatican had already released its official report on Pope Francis’s passing, confirming that he suffered a cerebral stroke which led to a coma and ultimately resulted in what was described as an “irreversible cardiocirculatory collapse.”

In the wake of the Pope’s passing, a profound stillness fell over St. Peter’s Square. The air was heavy with reverence as pilgrims stood united in silence, clutching rosaries and whispering prayers in heartfelt tribute.

Among the mourners, one man draped himself in an Argentine flag—a poignant nod to Pope Francis’s heritage. Eyes turned toward the now-vacant balcony, where just the day before, he had offered his final blessing. “I feel such sorrow,” said Brigitte Thalhammer, her voice tinged with emotion. “This moment carries immense significance.”

As the final prayer of the rosary faded into silence, a wave of spontaneous applause rippled through the square—an outpouring of gratitude for the 88-year-old pontiff who had left an indelible mark on the Catholic Church over the past decade.

Pope Francis passed away following months of serious health challenges that had drawn concern from around the globe. He had been hospitalized at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on February 14, 2025, where he was receiving treatment for severe pneumonia in both lungs.

According to medical reports from that period, he relied on high-flow oxygen therapy during the day and noninvasive mechanical ventilation at night.

Yet, even in the midst of his health struggles, he remained devoted to his spiritual responsibilities—participating in the Roman Curia’s Spiritual Exercises via video from his hospital room. In a touching moment, he also marked the 12th anniversary of his election with a cake lovingly delivered by his medical team.

The Vatican described the Pope’s condition as clinically stable, though still within a complex medical context. By the end of March, after two weeks of encouraging recovery, doctors made the uplifting announcement that he would be discharged—concluding a harrowing 38-day hospital stay that had twice brought him to the brink of death.

While doctors recommended two months of rest and caution against large public events, they remained hopeful that he could gradually return to his full schedule. His official discharge took place on March 23, when he returned to the Vatican to recuperate in the peaceful setting of Casa Santa Marta.

On Easter Sunday, April 20, Pope Francis made his final public appearance. From the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, he offered a heartfelt blessing to thousands gathered below, while Cardinal Angelo Comastri led the day’s Mass on his behalf.

Unbeknownst to the world, this would be his last farewell. Just hours later, on the morning of April 21, the Vatican announced that Pope Francis had passed away peacefully at 7:35 a.m. in his residence.

At 9:45 a.m., from Casa Santa Marta, Cardinal Kevin Farrell delivered the heartfelt announcement with deep sorrow and profound gratitude. “Her entire life was a testament to unwavering devotion to the Lord and His Church,” he stated. “She inspired us to embody the Gospel’s values with steadfast faith, boldness, and boundless love.”

The Holy See Press Office confirmed that the Pope’s body will be transferred to St. Peter’s Basilica on April 23, allowing the faithful to offer their final farewell. This arrangement is expected to be formally confirmed following the initial General Congregation of Cardinals.

A Solemn Farewell to the Holy Father

At 8 p.m. on Monday, a solemn and dignified ceremony was held to officially certify the passing of the Pope and to lay his body to rest in a coffin within the chapel of his private residence. Presided over by Cardinal Farrell, the rite lasted just under an hour and was steeped in reverence and tradition.

Seals were formally placed on the papal apartment in the Apostolic Palace, as well as on the second floor of Casa Santa Marta—his home in recent years. Matteo Bruni, Director of the Holy See Press Office, later confirmed that Pope Francis’s closest companions had begun to offer their personal farewells. He added that details of the funeral arrangements were still being finalized.

Meanwhile, tributes poured in across social media, reflecting the deep affection felt around the world. “Oh my God, he’s resting now,” one user wrote. Another shared, “Rest in peace, as you deserve 🙏,” while a heartfelt comment read simply, “RIP Dad 🙏 we’ll miss you.”