At Pope Francis’s funeral on April 26, 2025, the presence of major political figures drew widespread attention — but so did their behavior.
Former President Joe Biden, who attended the service alongside his wife, Jill Biden, stirred controversy after being spotted taking selfies with other officials upon his arrival at St. Peter’s Square. Although no longer the sitting president, Biden and his wife were seated toward the back of the dignitaries’ section, in accordance with protocol. Nevertheless, some viewers were taken aback by what they considered inappropriate behavior at such a solemn event.
Comments criticizing Biden flooded social media. One user called it “extremely inappropriate” to snap selfies at a funeral, while others labeled it “disrespectful” and “messed up.” Photos of Biden posing with officials, including Ugandan Member of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa, spread rapidly online. Tayebwa, who also posted a tribute to Pope Francis, shared a selfie he had taken with Biden, describing the occasion as a moment of profound personal significance.