As Catholics around the globe continue to mourn the passing of Pope Francis, an AI-generated image of U.S. President Donald Trump dressed as the pontiff has ignited sharp criticism from faith leaders and public figures alike.
The image, posted on Friday night via official White House social media accounts, depicts Trump in traditional papal attire — a white cassock, miter, and cross — with his finger raised and a solemn expression on his face. The timing of the post, just days after the April 21 death of Pope Francis and ahead of the Vatican conclave to elect his successor, has drawn condemnation from religious and political circles.
“There is nothing clever or funny about this image, Mr President,” the New York State Catholic Conference said in a pointed statement on X. “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.”
The backlash comes after Trump recently told reporters, “I’d like to be Pope,” a remark many viewed as flippant. Critics argue the AI image crosses the line from humor into disrespect, particularly given the deep sorrow and spiritual significance of this moment for Catholics worldwide.
Italian former Prime Minister Matteo Renzi joined in the condemnation, calling the post “an image that offends believers, insults institutions, and shows that the leader of the right-wing world enjoys clowning around.”
Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni declined to comment during a press briefing, as preparations continue for the conclave set to begin on Wednesday.
Despite the uproar, the White House defended the post, rejecting claims that it was mocking the Catholic faith.
“President Trump flew to Italy to pay his respects to Pope Francis and attend his funeral,” said Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt. “He has been a staunch champion for Catholics and religious liberty.”
The controversy evokes memories of past tensions between U.S. presidents and the Catholic Church. Just last year, former President Joe Biden — a practicing Catholic — faced backlash for making the sign of the cross at a pro-abortion rights rally in Tampa, Florida.
As the Vatican prepares for a pivotal transition, the image has added an unexpected layer of political tension to a time of spiritual reflection.
