On May 3, 2025, Trump shared an AI-generated image on his Truth Social platform and the official White House X account, showing himself dressed in papal regalia (white cassock, mitre, and crucifix) with a solemn expression and raised finger
The post came days after Trump attended Pope Francis’s funeral (April 26) and joked to reporters: “I’d like to be Pope. That would be my number one choice”
The image was shared during the Vatican’s official mourning period for Pope Francis and just before the conclave (beginning May 7) to elect his successor, which many viewed as disrespectful
Critics noted the contrast with Trump’s recent participation in Francis’s funeral, where he was seen chewing gum and wearing a non-traditional blue suit
Backlash from Catholic Leaders
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New York State Catholic Conference: Called the image a “mockery” of the faith during a solemn period
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Cardinal Timothy Dolan (Archbishop of New York, a Trump ally): Said the image “wasn’t good” and hoped Trump wasn’t involved
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Bishop Thomas Paprocki (Illinois): Accused Trump of “mocking God and the Papacy” and demanded an apology
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Former Italian PM Matteo Renzi: Labeled it “offensive to believers” and evidence of Trump’s “clowning
Meanwhile, The White House has come to the President’s defense. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated Trump had paid respect at Francis’s funeral and was a “staunch champion for Catholics”.
The far-right activist Jack Posobiec also dismissed criticism, calling it a “sense of humor”
