US President Donald Trump set tongues wagging during Pope Francis’ funeral by wearing a blue suit, not black. He also crossed the holy carpet under the late pope’s coffin. These moves, which came across as flagrant violations of funeral etiquette, elicited explosive reactions from mourners and watchers across the globe.

While 200,000 mourners converged on St. Peter’s Square, Trump’s attire stood out in stark relief — and not necessarily in a good way.

Trump’s Choice of Attire Enrages Mourners

Trump showed up to the service wearing a bright blue suit. Other global leaders, such as Prince William and UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, wore somber black. Melania Trump, though, stayed traditional in a black dress and veil.

Social media went wild near-instantly. Users criticized that Trump was “the only one not dressed in a dark suit.” Most considered it disrespectful. Some even questioned whether he dressed in blue “just to be seen.”

Photos circulated rapidly. Trump’s colorful suit stood out against the sea of black-clad leaders. His look seemed even more incongruous against the dignified attire of royalty and officials.

Trump’s Carpet Blunder Attracts More Criticism

The controversy did not end with the suit. During the Vatican visit, Trump and Melania stepped over the holy carpet in front of the Pope’s coffin. Guests typically get explicit instructions to avoid the holy ground.

Numerous witnesses picked up on it immediately. “Trump and Melania – the only two stepping over the rug where Pope Francis’ coffin sits,” someone posted online. Others noted that other leaders stood back.

Prince William and Sir Keir Starmer stood well back from the carpet. Their dignified actions rendered Trump’s gaffe even more embarrassing.

Global Outrage and Symbolic Fallout

Backlash soon extended well beyond the world of social media. Critics declared the episode damaged America’s reputation at a premier international gathering. Many believed Trump’s behavior demonstrated a broader disrespect for diplomatic protocol.

Trump and Melania lingered for only a minute by the coffin. Their blunders, however, made up all the headlines. Their behavior eclipsed the solemnity of the ceremony itself.

As the world looks back on Pope Francis’ legacy, Trump’s conduct is reminder enough. Even minor instances of disrespect can have enduring repercussions.