President Donald Trump's jest about wanting to be the pope elicited a humorous response from Senator Lindsey Graham, who urged the papal conclave and Catholic faithful to keep an 'open mind' about the unlikely prospect. Graham's playful remarks included the idea of a Pope-U.S. President combination having many advantages and humorously anticipated the symbolic white smoke of a papal election. Trump, in his jest, expressed himself as his own top choice for pope but acknowledged Cardinal Timothy Dolan from New York as a competent alternative. The light-hearted exchange occurred amidst Trump's endorsement of Graham for re-election, which has sparked some conservative backlash. Despite the humorous tone, the conclave to elect the next pope is set to begin on May 7, highlighting the contrast between political satire and ecclesiastical processes.

After President Trump jokingly suggested he would like to be the next pope, Senator Lindsey Graham responded on social media by encouraging the Catholic conclave and followers to keep an 'open mind' regarding this improbable candidacy.

Graham humorously remarked on the potential benefits of a dual role of Pope and U.S. President, whimsically mentioning the anticipation of 'white smoke' as if signaling a papal election.

In his jest, Trump named himself as his 'number one choice' for pope but also mentioned Cardinal Timothy Dolan, Archbishop of New York, as a viable option, indicating he had 'no preference' otherwise.

This exchange of humor comes in the backdrop of Trump's endorsement of Graham for re-election, a move that has caused some friction among conservative circles.

The actual papal conclave, a serious and traditional process distinct from the political satire, is scheduled to commence on May 7, emphasizing the separation between political humor and religious protocol.