Trump jokes about papacy as conclave nears in New York remarks
Donald Trump surprised journalists by joking that he would like to become the pope. "That would be my No. 1 choice," he added. On a more serious note, he mentioned the cardinal from New York.
What do you need to know?
- Donald Trump was asked for his opinion on the upcoming conclave during a conversation with reporters before departing for Michigan.
- The conclave to choose a successor to Pope Francis will begin on 7th May. It will be attended by 133 cardinals.
- Trump mentioned the "cardinal that happens to be out of a place called New York," emphasising his merits, but did not express a clear preference regarding the selection of the new pope.
What were Donald Trump's words?
During the conversation with journalists, Donald Trump was asked about his opinion on the upcoming conclave.
In response, the former President of the USA joked that he would like to become the pope, which would be his "No. 1 choice." Then, in a more serious tone, he stated that he has no preference regarding the selection of the new pope, but mentioned the cardinal from New York, whom he described as "very good."
When will the conclave take place?
The conclave to select a successor to Pope Francis will begin on 7th May. This event will be attended by 133 cardinals.
Pope Francis died on 21st April 2025, and according to canon law, the conclave must begin at the earliest 15 and at the latest 20 days after the pope's death.
