Trump jokes he'd like to be pope, 'Number 1 choice' — then names a real contender
During a light-hearted exchange with reporters, President Donald Trump jokingly expressed his desire to be pope following the death of Pope Francis, who passed away at the age of 88. Trump humorously remarked that being pope would be his 'number one choice' but then mentioned Cardinal Timothy Dolan of New York as a viable candidate for the papacy. Trump and First Lady Melania attended Pope Francis' funeral at the Vatican, where Trump also met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. A papal conclave is scheduled to begin on May 7 to select the next pope, traditionally chosen from the College of Cardinals. Trump's comments were made en route to a rally in Michigan, marking his 100th day in office since returning to the presidency.
President Donald Trump, in a humorous interaction with the press, stated his whimsical ambition of becoming pope, following the death of Pope Francis, who died on Easter Monday at 88 years old.
Trump, who is not Catholic, suggested Cardinal Timothy Dolan from New York as a strong candidate for the papacy, reflecting his awareness of the traditional process of electing a pope from the College of Cardinals.
Following Pope Francis' passing, a papal conclave is set to convene on May 7, where cardinals will gather to elect the next pope, a centuries-old tradition in the Catholic Church.
The Trumps attended the funeral mass of Pope Francis at the Vatican, during which President Trump engaged in a private discussion with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, highlighting ongoing international relations.
Trump's remarks were part of a broader itinerary that included a rally in Michigan, celebrating his 100th day back in the Oval Office, a state where he has historically held significant campaign events.
The conclave process is open to any baptized Catholic male, although the election customarily involves members of the College of Cardinals, reflecting the church's longstanding practices.
Trump's candid and playful comments at the Vatican come amidst his broader political activities and interactions with global leaders, underscoring his distinctive approach to diplomacy and media engagement.