Days before the papal conclave, Donald Trump posted an AI-generated image of himself as pope. The image sparked controversy among Catholics. The White House amplified the post on X.
The New York State Catholic Conference condemned the portrayal. They stated it was disrespectful after Pope Francis's passing. The image depicted Trump in white Catholic regalia.
Cardinal Timothy Dolan called the image "wasn't good." Former Italian Prime Minister Matteo Renzi criticized the image. He said it offends believers and insults institutions.
Jesuit priest James Martin found the image deeply offensive. Vice President JD Vance defended Trump's right to tell jokes. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt stated Trump respects Catholics and religious liberty.
Trump joked last week about wanting to be Pope Francis's successor. He told reporters that it would be his number one choice.