Trump jokes about papacy while sharing AI‑generated image
Donald Trump never ceases to surprise. Late Friday evening, he posted a graphic on social media depicting himself on a gilded chair, dressed in a white papal cassock. This is a clear reference to comments he made a few days earlier when he joked about wanting to become the pope.
Trump shared the graphic, featuring his likeness, on the platform truthsocial.com. It appears the image was generated by artificial intelligence.
Alongside the white cassock, "Trump" is adorned with a gold cross around his neck and a mitre—a headpiece worn by church leaders during liturgical functions. His left hand rests on his hip, while his right hand points at something.
Does Trump want to become the pope? Surprising answer
On Wednesday, during a conversation with journalists, Donald Trump was asked about his opinion on the upcoming conclave.
In response, the former U.S. president joked that becoming the pope would be his "number one choice." Then, in a more serious tone, he stated that he has no preferences regarding the selection of the new pope but mentioned a cardinal from New York, whom he described as "very good."
When will the conclave take place?
The conclave, during which the successor to Pope Francis will be elected, is scheduled to begin on May 7. A total of 133 cardinals will participate in this event.
Pope Francis died on April 21, 2025, and according to canon law, the conclave must start no earlier than 15 and no later than 20 days after the pope's death.
