U.S. President Donald Trump is facing widespread backlash after posting an AI-generated image of himself dressed in papal regalia, just 11 days after the death of Pope Francis.
The image, shared on Trump’s Truth Social account, portrays him in white robes with a mitre (the traditional papal hat) and a prominent crucifix around his neck. The post has drawn sharp criticism from both Catholics and non-Catholics who view the move as tone-deaf and disrespectful during a time of mourning for millions around the world.
The controversy follows Trump’s offhand remark to reporters earlier this week; when asked who he believed should succeed Pope Francis, Trump quipped, “I’d like to be Pope. That would be my number one choice,” before noting that a cardinal in New York was “very good.”
Pope Francis passed away on Easter Monday at the age of 88, due to a stroke and heart failure. The Vatican is expected to hold a conclave begining May, 7, 2025 to elect the next pontiff.
The AI-generated post has stirred strong reactions online. One social media user pleaded, “Please take this down. Many Catholics, myself included, find this a great disrespect to the past and future leader of our church.”
Another commented, “As someone outside the U.S., I find your post utterly disrespectful to the Catholic community worldwide. The papacy is a sacred institution, and this mockery is an affront to millions.”
