Donald Trump, the former US president, claimed that Pope Francis was “crazed out” upon meeting President Joe Biden last Friday.
During the Group of Seven Summit in Italy, a video captured Francis warmly greeting Biden and other world leaders. Trump, a Republican expected nominee, took to social media alleging that Francis seemed uncomfortable with Biden approaching him closely.
Trump shared a photo from the encounter on his Truth Social website, commenting, “Look at the Pope—He’s freaking out! This can’t possibly be normal, can it?”
In a White House report on Biden and Francis’ meeting, Biden thanked Pope Francis for his efforts in addressing the humanitarian impact of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, including helping to reunite kidnapped Ukrainian children with their parents.
The report also highlighted Biden’s appreciation for Pope Francis’ advocacy for the poor, those affected by climate change and global conflicts, as well as those persecuted and suffering.
Biden has maintained a friendly relationship with Francis for years, even sharing that during a 2021 meeting, the Pope appreciated Biden’s Catholic faith.
Trump’s criticism of Biden’s mental acuity continued when he suggested the 81-year-old Biden take a cognitive test, shortly before making a verbal slip during a speech.
Referencing a cognitive test he underwent during his presidency, Trump suggested Biden could benefit from a similar assessment. He also mentioned Ronny Jackson, the White House doctor during his tenure and now a Republican Congressman, whom he held in high regard.
Although turning 78 himself, Trump has regularly raised doubts about Biden’s mental sharpness, with his critics quick to seize on any gaffes Trump himself makes.