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3d ago

JD Vance Reflects on Final Meeting with Pope Francis Before His Death

The Vice President, currently in India, calls the brief Easter Sunday encounter a 'great blessing' while avoiding political discussions about the late pontiff's legacy.

Pope Francis meets with Vice President JD Vance on Easter Sunday at the Vatican, April 20, 2025. Vatican Media/­Handout
Pope Francis meets with U.S. Vice President JD Vance on Easter Sunday at the Vatican, April 20, 2025. Vatican Media/­Handout via REUTER./File Photo
Pope Francis meets with U.S. Vice President JD Vance on Easter Sunday at the Vatican, April 20, 2025. Vatican Media/­Handout via REUTERS/File Photo

Overview

  • Vice President JD Vance met Pope Francis on Easter Sunday, less than 24 hours before the pontiff's death from a stroke at age 88.
  • Vance, speaking from India, described the meeting as a deeply personal moment and emphasized the Pope's role as a spiritual leader rather than a political figure.
  • Pope Francis's final Easter message criticized fear-driven policies and urged compassion for migrants, a stance often at odds with Trump administration policies Vance defended.
  • Vance has declined to comment on political disagreements with the Pope, stating he would not 'soil the man's legacy' by revisiting past disputes.
  • The Vice President's ongoing trip to India has included meetings with Prime Minister Modi and visits to cultural landmarks, overshadowed by a recent terror attack in Kashmir that killed over 25 tourists.