United States President Donald Trump has sparked online outrage after sharing an AI-generated image of himself dressed as the Pope, shortly after joking that he would like to become the next leader of the Catholic Church.
Trump posted the image days after attending the funeral of Pope Francis, who died on April 21 at age 88 following a stroke and heart failure, according to the Vatican. The funeral was a solemn moment for many Catholics around the world.
The image, which appears to be generated by artificial intelligence, shows Trump in full papal clothing—white robes, a golden cross necklace, and the traditional miter hat. He is seen pointing one finger toward the sky.
This post came just days after Trump joked to reporters, “I’d like to be Pope, that would be my number one choice,” when asked who he wanted to replace Pope Francis. He later said he had “no preference,” but mentioned a New York cardinal whom he described as “very good.” He was likely referring to Archbishop Timothy Dolan, a well-known conservative who opposes abortion.
Reactions on social media have been mixed, but many users were angry and called the image “disrespectful,” especially given the timing of the Pope’s passing. One user commented, “This is disgusting and entirely offensive,” while another wrote, “This is extremely disrespectful and narcissistic. Republicans really voted for that.”
Some also felt Trump was mocking the Catholic Church and the sacred process of choosing a new Pope. One person wrote, “How disrespectful to Catholics. That is what Trump and his followers are all about—disrespect and meanness.”
Meanwhile, South Carolina Senator Lindsey Graham tried to make light of the situation, writing on social media, “I was excited to hear that President Trump is open to the idea of being the next Pope. This would truly be a dark horse candidate, but I would ask the papal conclave and Catholic faithful to keep an open mind about this possibility!”
The Vatican has not responded publicly to Trump’s remarks or the viral image.
Cardinals from around the world are expected to gather in the Sistine Chapel on May 7 to begin the conclave that will choose the next Pope.
