JD Vance found himself at the center of controversy after breaking a significant rule during his recent Easter visit to the Vatican. A photograph showing Vance holding his son inside the Sistine Chapel was shared by conservative commentator Charlie Kirk, igniting criticism across social media for disregarding the chapel’s strict no-photography policy. Do different rules apply to visiting dignitaries compared to regular tourists?
Vice President’s Vatican Visit Sparks Controversy
Vice President JD Vance stirred controversy during his Easter weekend visit to the Vatican when a photograph emerged showing him inside the Sistine Chapel with his son. The image, shared by conservative figure Charlie Kirk, violated the chapel’s longstanding ban on photography, which was established to preserve Michelangelo’s masterpieces and maintain the sacred atmosphere.
The photograph quickly generated backlash on social media, with users criticizing Vance for disrespecting Vatican rules that all visitors are expected to follow. Critics pointed out that announcements about the no-photography policy are made repeatedly before entering the chapel, making it nearly impossible for visitors to claim ignorance of the restriction.
An epic shot of Vice President JD Vance and his son inside the Sistine Chapel. What an incredible way to spend Easter weekend. pic.twitter.com/HldQVtcN93
— Charlie Kirk (@charliekirk11) April 20, 2025
Historical Context of the Photography Ban
The Sistine Chapel’s photography prohibition originated from a 1980 agreement with Japan’s Nippon TV, which funded the restoration of the chapel’s artwork in exchange for exclusive photography rights. Although those exclusive rights have expired, the Vatican has maintained the ban to protect the delicate frescoes from camera flashes and to preserve the contemplative environment of the sacred space.
Social media users were quick to condemn Vance’s actions, with one X user writing, “To take photos in the Sistine Chapel is strictly forbidden! Every true Catholic knows this. This picture shows what’s wrong: Rules are only to be followed by others, but not the American government – utterly despicable!” Another commented, “There is a strict rule of not taking pictures within the chapel. But we all know that some people wipe their feet on rules and even the law.”
You do NOT take pictures in the sistine chapel. No respect.
— The future Mrs.MacFarlane (@KindderBerge) April 21, 2025
Meeting with Pope Francis and Aftermath
Vance’s visit to the Vatican included a meeting with Pope Francis just one day before the pontiff’s unexpected death at age 88. During their brief encounter, Pope Francis presented Vance with gifts for his children, including chocolate Easter eggs, a Vatican tie, and rosaries.
The meeting reportedly included an awkward exchange over migration policies, with the Pope emphasizing care for migrants—a position that has often contrasted with the Trump administration’s approach. Following Pope Francis’ passing, Vance paid tribute to him on social media, but the White House has not issued any comment regarding the Sistine Chapel photography incident.
Some defenders of Vance have pointed out that other political figures have been photographed in the chapel previously, suggesting inconsistent enforcement of the rule. As a Catholic convert, Vance’s attendance at Easter Mass at the Vatican was significant, but the protocol breach has overshadowed what might otherwise have been viewed as a meaningful religious pilgrimage.