‘I’d Like to Be Pope’: Trump Posts AI Image in Papal Robes

U.S. President Donald Trump has stirred online reactions after posting an AI-generated image of himself dressed in papal regalia. The image, shared on his Truth Social account, depicts Trump wearing a white robe and a mitre, the traditional headwear of a pope, along with a large crucifix around his neck. The post came just 11 days after the death of Pope Francis.

The official White House account also reposted the image on X (formerly Twitter), amplifying the buzz around the digitally altered image. Trump later made a light-hearted remark when asked who he would like to see succeed the late pontiff, saying, “I’d like to be Pope. That would be my number one choice.”

Although he clarified that he had no specific preference, Trump mentioned a cardinal from New York, whom he described as “very good,” adding, “so we’ll see what happens.”

Pope Francis passed away on Easter Monday at the age of 88, following complications from a stroke and heart failure. A conclave is currently underway to select his successor. President Trump, accompanied by First Lady Melania and other world leaders, attended the funeral in Rome.