Donald Trump Posts AI-Generated Image as Pope, Says “I’d Like to Be the Next Pontiff” Ahead of Vatican Conclave

Donald Trump Posts AI-Generated Image as Pope, Says “I’d Like to Be the Next Pontiff” Ahead of Vatican Conclave

Published: May 3, 2025 | 01:43 AM IST

Washington, D.C. – US President Donald Trump has once again grabbed global headlines after posting an AI-generated image of himself dressed as the pope on his social media platform, Truth Social. The striking image shows Trump wearing papal white robes, a gold crucifix, and the traditional miter hat, with his right index finger pointed skyward in a messianic pose.

The post comes shortly after Trump joked to reporters that he would “like to be pope,” as the Catholic world prepares for the May 7 conclave to elect a successor to Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21. Trump, when asked who he would like to see as the next pontiff, responded: “I’d like to be pope, that would be my number one choice.”

Though he added he had no particular preference, he did mention a cardinal in New York he considered “very good”—an apparent reference to Archbishop Timothy Dolan, known for his conservative theological stance and vocal opposition to abortion.

Trump also attended Pope Francis’ funeral service last week, marking his first international appearance since returning to power. His presence raised eyebrows, especially considering the strained history between the two figures. Francis had been a vocal critic of Trump’s policies, most notably his 2016 proposal to build a wall on the US-Mexico border. At the time, the Pope said: “Anyone, whoever he is, who only wants to build walls and not bridges is not a Christian.”

The timing of Trump’s post and comments has drawn both backlash and amusement online. Critics argue it is disrespectful toward the Catholic Church and its traditions, while supporters see it as classic Trump-style bravado and satire.

About 20% of Americans identify as Catholic, and exit polls in November showed 60% support for Trump among Catholic voters, suggesting his religious gestures may also carry political intent.

The Vatican has not yet responded to Trump’s latest remarks or the AI image. Meanwhile, cardinals from around the world will gather in the Sistine Chapel on May 7 to elect the 267th pope of the Roman Catholic Church.