WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. President Donald Trump made headlines once again by sharing an AI-generated image of himself dressed as the pope on his social platform, Truth Social. The image surfaced just days after Trump jokingly declared his desire to become the next pope, sparking a wave of online buzz ahead of the Vatican conclave.
The image, which shows Trump wearing traditional papal garments—white robes, a golden crucifix, and a mitre hat—features him pointing skyward, mimicking iconic religious symbolism. While clearly digitally created, the post underscores Trump’s knack for stirring public conversation with bold and unexpected moves.
Trump’s light-hearted remarks came during a press exchange earlier this week, when he was asked who he thought should replace the late Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21. Without naming a specific preference, Trump quipped, “I’d like to be pope, that would be my number one choice.” He later mentioned a “very good” cardinal in New York, likely referencing Cardinal Timothy Dolan, the archbishop known for his conservative stance on key religious issues.
This all comes as the Vatican prepares for a major transition. Cardinals are set to gather on May 7 in the Sistine Chapel to elect a new pope during the official papal conclave. The event will be closely watched around the world.
Trump also attended Pope Francis’ funeral last week, marking his first international visit since returning to power. His appearance and comments have sparked discussion about the intersection of religion and politics, especially considering that approximately 20% of Americans identify as Catholic, and exit polls suggest around 60% of Catholic voterssupported Trump in the last election.
Notably, Trump and Pope Francis have had a tense history. During Trump’s 2016 presidential campaign, the late pontiff criticized his proposed U.S.-Mexico border wall, stating, “Anyone who only wants to build walls and not bridges is not a Christian.”
With the Catholic Church entering a pivotal phase, Trump’s mix of humor and commentary continues to draw attention across religious and political spheres.
