JD Vance Sparks Outrage Again: Patted the Pope Like a Puppy

Vance broke longstanding etiquette with a casual elbow pat.

U.S. Vice President JD Vance is facing backlash again, this time for making what many have called an “inappropriate” gesture toward newly elected Pope Leo XIV during a formal meeting at the Vatican.

Critics say Vance broke longstanding etiquette with a casual elbow pat.

A Second Vatican Faux Pas in Two Months

This marks the second time Vance has been accused of disrespecting Vatican traditions.

Just weeks ago, he stirred controversy by posting prohibited photos from inside the Sistine Chapel, a place where cameras and electronics are strictly banned.

Pope Leo XIV: A Historic and Politically Distant Pontiff

Pope Leo XIV, born in Chicago, made history as the first American pope. But politically, he may be at odds with Vance.

Old social media posts resurfaced showing the pope’s critical views of Trump-era policies, especially regarding immigration and Christian values.

A Tense Meeting That Turned Too Familiar

Although Vance and Pope Leo exchanged polite words and shook hands, the moment took a turn when Vance was seen gently patting the pope on the elbow, a move that many saw as overly casual, if not disrespectful, in the context of Catholic formality.

Social Media Reaction: ‘Frat Bro Vibes’ at the Vatican

The elbow pat quickly sparked reactions online.

One user wrote, “He looked like he was greeting a drinking buddy.”

Another called the gesture “condescending,” comparing it to “patting a puppy’s head before moving along.”

The criticism was swift and widespread.

Vatican Etiquette: What Vance Reportedly Violated

When meeting the pope, etiquette is clear:

• Speak only when addressed
• Use the title “Your Holiness”
• Avoid physical contact unless initiated
• Dress conservatively

By casually touching the pope, Vance appears to have breached Vatican protocol, according to observers and church commentators.

Vance Responds to Papal Tension: ‘I’ll Pray for Him’

Despite the chilly optics, Vance responded to Pope Leo’s previous criticisms by saying:

“I’ll continue to pray for him and the Church despite it all.”

The vice president added that he wouldn’t play “the politicization of the Pope game.”