An AI-generated image of Trump portraying himself in papal attire surfaced online late Friday, igniting immediate backlash as the Catholic Church prepares to select a new pontiff next week.
The digitally altered photo, which shows former President Donald Trump seated solemnly in white robes and papal regalia, was posted on his Truth Social account. The timing of the post, just ahead of the cardinals’ gathering to choose a successor to the late Pope Francis, sparked both ridicule and outrage. Trump, who has previously quipped about wanting to be pope, does not practice Catholicism and rarely attends religious services.
White House Amplifies the Image; Outcry Follows
Shortly after Trump’s original post, the White House’s official X (formerly Twitter) account reshared the AI-generated visual. The image depicts Trump seated on a throne-like chair, right forefinger raised, dressed in traditional papal garments including the mitre.
The post drew sharp criticism on X, particularly from Republican groups opposed to Trump. One such organization, identifying as conservative and pro-democracy, denounced the image as “deeply offensive to Catholics” and accused the former president of mocking their beliefs.
Vatican Remains Silent on the Provocative Post
Despite the uproar online, Vatican spokesperson Matteo Bruni offered no comment during a press briefing focused on the logistics of the upcoming conclave scheduled to begin May 7. The Holy See has not addressed the image or Trump’s recent remarks referencing the papacy.
The AI-generated image of Trump is not the first of its kind to make headlines. In February, Trump and the White House shared another altered photo featuring him wearing a crown, alongside a message celebrating the cancellation of congestion pricing in New York City. That post was also met with a mix of amusement and criticism.
Supporters Defend Trump’s Intent, Citing Humor
Back in West Palm Beach, Florida, Trump supporters gathered outside his golf club Saturday morning as his motorcade arrived. Among them, 60-year-old Debbie Macchia dismissed the backlash, suggesting the pope’s image was meant in jest.
“It was a joke, obviously,” she said. “But still, I wouldn’t want to see anyone make fun of the pope in a disrespectful way.”
As the conversation around AI-generated political imagery intensifies, this latest AI-generated image of Trump illustrates how quickly such content can provoke global reactions, especially when faith and leadership are intertwined.
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