US President Donald Trump has been criticised for posting an AI-generated image of himself as Pope.
Gatekeepers News report that the image image showed Trump dressed in a white cassock, pointed mitre, and a large cross necklace. He raised a raised finger with a serious expression.
Days before, the president had jokingly said he would like to be Pope while speaking to reporters, joking.
This came after the death of Pope Francis on April 21, 2025, and comes amid the catholic church’s preparation for the selection of a new pontiff.
New York State Catholic Conference Ina post on X, condemned the post, accusing Trump of mocking Catholic traditions.
It wrote, “There is nothing clever or funny about this image, Mr. President. We just buried our beloved Pope Francis, and the cardinals are about to begin a solemn conclave. Do not mock us.”
Former Prime Minister of Italy, Matteo Renzi also criticised Trump on X, saying, “ This is an image that offends believers, insults institutions and shows that the leader of the right-wing world enjoys clowning around.”
However, White House denied that Trump’s post was meant to be disrespectful.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said, “ “President Trump flew to Italy to pay his respects to Pope Francis and attend his funeral, and he has been a staunch champion for Catholics and religious liberty.”
