J.D. Vance: The Leader Who Met Pope Francis Before His Passing

U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance met Pope Francis on April 20, 2025, in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican to exchange Easter greetings. Vance, a Catholic who has previously clashed with the Pope over immigration policies during the Trump administration, was the last leader to meet the pontiff before his passing on the following morning after a prolonged respiratory illness.

Vance, who became Catholic in 2019, visited Italy with his family and held formal discussions with senior Vatican officials on Saturday. Pope Francis did not participate in these talks, which had addressed several controversial policies of President Donald Trump's administration, including mass deportations and cuts to foreign aid and welfare programs. The Pope had condemned these policies, particularly the immigration crackdown, calling it a “disgrace.” Vance, however, had defended such policies, referencing medieval Catholic teachings.

Earlier this month, Britain’s King Charles and Queen Camilla made a surprise visit to the Vatican to meet the Pope privately, offering their best wishes for his 20th wedding anniversary. The visit had been initially planned as a formal state visit but was postponed due to the Pope's medical needs.

Published: April 21, 2025.