Donald Trump sparks online buzz after posting an AI-style photo of himself as the Pope, following Pope Francis' recent passing.


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Former President Donald Trump stirred up social media on Friday night by posting a digitally altered image of himself dressed as the Pope on his platform, Truth Social. The post came just days after the death of Pope Francis and immediately sparked a wave of reactions—ranging from humorous praise to sharp criticism.

🕊️ The Timing: Just Days After Pope Francis’ Passing

The post comes shortly after the Catholic world mourned the loss of Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21 due to complications following a stroke and cardiocirculatory collapse.

  • His funeral was held at St. Peter’s Square, drawing global leaders including Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump.

  • Pope Francis was laid to rest in St. Mary Major Basilica in Rome.

  • Francis was known for his progressive stances, especially toward the LGBTQ+ community.

📸 Trump’s Post: No Caption, Big Impact

At 10:29 PM ET, Trump posted an image that appeared to be AI-generated, showing him dressed in full papal attire. The image carried no caption or explanation, leaving followers to interpret it on their own.

💬 Reactions from the Right and Left

The internet lit up with responses, with some hailing the post as classic Trump trolling, and others calling it disrespectful or delusional.

Positive Reactions:

  • Terrance K. Williams, comedian: “Pope Trump… He’s trolling because he knows the media will flip. Love it.”

  • MAGA Voice (X): “🚨 HOLY SH*T — Donald Trump stuns the world by posting a picture of himself as the next Pope 🔥”

Negative Responses:

  • Melanie D’Arrigo, healthcare activist: “The guy who broke all 10 commandments is now cosplaying as the Pope.”

  • Art Candee, artist: “Donald Trump is now posting AI images cosplaying as the Pope. Bro isn't right in the head.”

  • Ruth Ben-Ghiat, historian: “Authoritarian leader cult alert.”

🗣️ Trump’s Take on the Next Pope

When asked who he wants to see succeed Pope Francis, Trump joked:

“I’d like to be Pope. That would be my number one choice.”

He later added that Cardinal Timothy Dolan of New York would be a strong candidate.

🧢 Political Figures Join the Banter

Other political names also chimed in with humorous takes:

  • Marco Rubio, Trump’s Secretary of State, joked: “You don’t have to be a priest. Any unmarried Catholic male can be Pope. But I’m married, so I guess I’m out.”

  • JD Vance, Vice President, posted: “If only there was a job opening for a devout Catholic...”

  • Senator Lindsey Graham added fuel, posting: “Watching for white smoke… Trump MMXXVIII!”

Meanwhile, critics were less amused:

  • Republicans Against Trump (X): “It’s full-on lunacy at this point.”

📨 Vatican Response?

As of now, there has been no official response from the Vatican. Newsweek has reached out for comment.

📲 The Bigger Picture: AI, Religion, and Memes

Trump’s post highlights how AI-generated images are becoming a new way to shape political identity and trigger public reaction. As debates rage about misinformation and religious respect, the viral photo once again proves Trump’s unique hold on internet culture.

FAQ

Trump posted the AI-generated photo on Truth Social, likely as a troll or joke, following the death of Pope Francis.

Yes, Trump joked about becoming the Pope when asked who should succeed Francis, saying “I’d like to be Pope.”

As of now, the Vatican has not responded publicly to Trump’s post.

Cardinal Timothy Dolan (NY) and others are among the names mentioned, with speculation ongoing in Vatican circles and betting markets.

Reactions are split. Supporters see it as humorous trolling, while critics call it disrespectful and absurd.

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