Pope Francis' death: J.D. Vance was one of the last American officers to see him alive
Republican senator J.D. Vance, an ally of president Donald Trump, was one of the last international figures to meet with Pope Francis before his passing. U.S. officials expressed condolences following the news.
The death of Pope Francis on Monday, April 21, prompted official reactions from around the world, including from the United States. U.S. authorities shared condolences through official statements, Senate remarks, and social media messages.
One of the last people to see the pontiff alive was Republican Senator J.D. Vance, a close political ally of Donald Trump. The visit took place just hours before the Pope’s death and was documented in a series of photographs showing a visibly weakened Pope at the Vatican.
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The final visit: J.D. Vance meets with the Pope
Senator J.D. Vance, who represents the state of Ohio, met with Pope Francis at the Vatican shortly before the pontiff’s death. Photos released from the visit show the Pope seated and visibly tired, shaking hands with the U.S. legislator. Vance was accompanied by his wife, who dressed in black and wore a veil, in accordance with Vatican protocol.
The meeting was brief and held in a private setting. According to U.S. media citing sources close to the Vatican, this may have been the final meeting Pope Francis had with a foreign public figure. No official details about the content of their conversation have been disclosed.
U.S. response following the Pope’s death
Following the announcement of Pope Francis’ passing, various U.S. officials and institutions expressed their condolences. Statements from the Senate, diplomatic representatives, and religious leaders highlighted the Pope’s legacy as a global advocate for dialogue and social justice.
While the White House has yet to release a direct presidential statement, officials acknowledged the global impact of Pope Francis' leadership and his commitment to causes such as climate change, migration, and peace. The Catholic community in the United States—one of the largest in the world—has begun special prayer services and reflections in memory of the late pontiff.