Trump Faces Backlash for Posting AI Image of Himself as Pope

The controversy arises as the Vatican prepares for a significant conclave following the death of Pope Francis.

Donald Trump has drawn significant criticism from various Catholic communities after sharing an AI-generated image of himself dressed as the Pope on official White House social media accounts. This post coincides with a somber period for Catholics following the death of Pope Francis on April 21, as they gear up to select his successor. The New York State Catholic Conference expressed discontent with Trump's action, accusing him of ridiculing their faith. This incident comes just days after Trump humorously told reporters that he would "like to be Pope."

It's not the first time a U.S. president has faced backlash for perceived disrespect toward Catholicism; former President Joe Biden was similarly criticized last year for making the sign of the cross at a pro-abortion access rally in Tampa. The Vatican's spokesman, Matteo Bruni, was noncommittal when asked about Trump's post during a press briefing on Saturday. The Vatican is set to begin a conclave on Wednesday to elect a new leader to succeed Pope Francis.

The AI-generated image, which was posted late last week, showcases Trump donning a white cassock and miter associated with the papacy, complete with a large cross and a solemn expression. The New York State Catholic Conference did not hold back in their response, taking to X to tell Trump: "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."

Italian politician Matteo Renzi, a left-wing former Prime Minister, also condemned Trump's post, stating in Italian on X that it "offends believers, insults institutions, and shows that the leader of the right-wing world enjoys clowning around." However, Trump's team dismissed notions that he was undermining the papacy. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt defended the former president, emphasizing that he had flown to Italy to pay respects to Pope Francis and that he has been a strong advocate for Catholics and religious liberty.