Trump Criticized for AI Image in Papal Robes Following Pope Francis’ Death

By Staff, Agencies

US President Donald Trump is facing backlash after posting an AI-generated image of himself in papal attire, just days after joking that he “would like to be Pope.”

The image drew mixed reactions online, with many accusing Trump of mocking the recent death of Pope Francis.

Pope Francis passed away last month at the age of 88 due to a stroke and heart failure, according to Vatican physician Andrea Arcangeli. Trump attended the funeral alongside other world leaders.

The AI image, which portrayed Trump dressed in ornate papal garments, triggered a wave of criticism on social media. Some users called the post “disrespectful to the Church and God himself,” while others labeled it “narcissistic” and “deeply offensive” to Catholics.

“This is disgusting and entirely offensive,” one person commented. Another user wrote, “How dare you mock the process we Catholics go through to pick a new pope.”

Trump had previously responded to a reporter’s question about who should succeed Francis by saying, “I’d like to be Pope. That would be my number one choice.” He added that he had “no preference,” but acknowledged a “very good” cardinal from New York.

Republican Senator Lindsey Graham joined in the remarks, posting on X [formerly Twitter] that he was “excited” by Trump’s papal ambitions and urged the Catholic conclave to keep an “open mind,” calling it a potential “dark horse” candidacy.

Trump’s post has stirred controversy not only for its timing, but also for its perceived insensitivity, drawing further criticism of his tone and sense of propriety.

While the Trump-Pope story dominated headlines, the US administration remained silent regarding ongoing “Israeli” airstrikes in Syria and military aggression across the region, underscoring the US’s selective approach to global outrage.