Trump Posts AI Photo as Pope

WASHINGTON D.C., United States of America - 3 May 2025

On 3 May 2025, President Donald Trump ignited controversy by posting an AI-generated image of himself dressed as the pope on his social media platform, Truth Social. The image, which depicted Trump in full papal regalia seated on a throne, was later shared by the official White House X account. This post came just days after Trump jokingly told reporters that becoming pope would be his "number one choice" for a new role, following the death of Pope Francis on 21 April.

The AI-generated image showed Trump in traditional papal attire, including a white cassock, a mitre, and a large crucifix, with a solemn expression and a raised finger. The timing of the post, during the official mourning period for Pope Francis and just days before the papal conclave scheduled for 7 May, was seen by many as insensitive. Trump had attended Pope Francis' funeral on 26 April, where he was noted for wearing a blue suit instead of the traditional black attire, further drawing criticism.

The image elicited a wide range of reactions. Supporters, including Senator Lindsey Graham, viewed the post as humorous, with Graham joking about Trump becoming the next pope—a role for which he is ineligible unless he converts to Catholicism. However, many others, particularly within the Catholic community, found the image offensive and disrespectful. The New York State Catholic Conference criticised the post, stating, "There is nothing clever or funny about this image, Mr. President. We just buried our beloved Pope Francis and the cardinals are about to enter a solemn conclave to elect a new successor of St. Peter. Do not mock us."

The Vatican declined to comment on the image during a briefing with journalists about the upcoming conclave. The conclave, set to begin on 7 May, will involve 133 cardinals gathering in Vatican City to elect the next pope. 

Image: Donald Trump/Truth Social