Jack Schlossberg Slammed for Controversial Pope Francis Tweet Involving JD Vance
Jack Schlossberg, Grandson of JFK, Faces Backlash Over Controversial Tweet About Pope Francis’ Death
Jack Schlossberg — grandson of former U.S. President John F. Kennedy — is trending online, but not for the reasons he might’ve hoped. The 31-year-old Harvard-educated political commentator and social media personality is under fire for a tweet many are calling “insensitive” and “tone-deaf.”
On Monday morning, just hours after the Vatican announced the death of Pope Francis at age 88, Schlossberg posted on X (formerly Twitter):
“Okay JD killed the pope.”
The message appeared to reference U.S. Vice President JD Vance, who had met with the Pope in Rome just one day earlier. But while Schlossberg’s tweet seemed to be a dark attempt at humor, the internet wasn’t laughing.
Critics flooded the post with disapproval:
“Your words are shameful.”
“Are you kidding with this? Just not funny – total disrespect.”
“No, Johnny. Maybe it’s time to back off.”
Many users reminded Schlossberg of his own family’s Catholic roots and his grandfather’s deep reverence for the church. One comment read:
“As a Kennedy, you should know better.”
Jack
John “Jack” Bouvier Kennedy Schlossberg is the only grandson of President John F. Kennedy and Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. The son of Caroline Kennedy, Schlossberg has long drawn public interest for his charisma and Ivy League pedigree.
Education: Yale undergrad, Harvard Law and Business dual degree (J.D./M.B.A.)
Experience: Former Senate intern, public speaker, and occasional political critic
Social Presence: Known for lighthearted videos and outspoken political takes on Instagram and X
Despite his Kennedy bloodline and elite education, Schlossberg’s latest comment has sparked a debate about responsibility and tone in public discourse.
JD Vance had been visiting Rome for Easter and was granted a brief audience with Pope Francis. Their meeting, which lasted around 17 minutes, included a quiet exchange of blessings and reflections.
Vance, a Catholic convert, told the Pope:
“I pray for you every day.”
In return, the Pope gifted Easter eggs for Vance’s children. The Pope, who looked visibly frail, passed away the following morning due to a massive stroke, according to Cardinal Kevin Farrell of the Vatican.
Cardinal Farrell confirmed that the Pope passed away peacefully at 7:35 a.m. in his Vatican residence. He described the pontiff as a “true disciple” who devoted his life to serving “the poorest and most marginalized.”
Pope Francis’ Legacy Includes:
Rejecting papal luxury: Lived in modest Vatican housing, not the Papal Palace
Riding the bus instead of limos
Confronting the Italian Mafia and excommunicating them from the Church
Advocating for climate action, refugee rights, and economic justice
Vice President Vance later posted a heartfelt tribute:
“I just learned of the passing of Pope Francis. My heart goes out to the millions of Christians all over the world who loved him.”
He also reflected on their brief encounter, calling it a “deeply moving” moment, and shared one of the Pope’s personal prayers from the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Whether intended as satire or sarcasm, Schlossberg’s tweet hit a nerve during a moment of global mourning. While his Kennedy lineage often garners admiration, this latest post has raised questions about the responsibilities that come with public influence — and how far is too far when it comes to humor.
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