Trump Sparks Controversy with AI-Generated Image of Himself as Pope
Washington, May 3 – Former U.S. President Donald Trump has ignited a wave of criticism after posting an AI-generated image of himself dressed in papal regalia on his Truth Social platform—just 11 days after the death of Pope Francis.
The image depicts Trump wearing white robes, a mitre, and a large crucifix, a move that follows his recent remark that he would like to be the next pontiff. Speaking to reporters earlier this week, Trump quipped, “I’d like to be Pope. That would be my number one choice.”
The post has drawn widespread backlash, with many Catholics and commentators calling it disrespectful. 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.” Others accused Trump of mocking the sacred institution of the papacy.
Trump also faced criticism for his appearance at Pope Francis’ funeral, where he was seen wearing a non-traditional blue suit and chewing gum during the ceremony. Some observers deemed his meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on the sidelines of the funeral inappropriate.
The conclave to elect Pope Francis’ successor is currently underway, with cardinals gathering in the Vatican’s Sistine Chapel to select the next leader of the Catholic Church.
