Vice President JD Vance Prefers Pope’s Directness to Vatican Officials’ Remarks

In a statement given on June 15, 2026, Vice President JD Vance expressed a distinct preference for the candid criticisms he received from Pope Francis over the more conventional statements offered by Vatican diplomats during his visit in April 2025. This meeting occurred shortly before the passing of Pope Francis.

During the meeting with Vatican officials, Vice President Vance found their comments lacking in substance, describing them as “trite platitudes” and “clichés.” In contrast, he appreciated the straightforward nature of Pope Francis’s feedback.

The meeting, which took place in Rome, left a significant impression on Vance. The Vice President valued the clear and direct manner in which Pope Francis communicated, finding it more meaningful than the formal diplomatic language used by others he encountered.