President Donald Trump humorously suggested he would like to be the next pope by posting an AI-generated image of himself as the pontiff on Truth Social, amidst the Vatican's search for a new leader following Pope Francis' funeral. This post garnered a variety of reactions, with some finding it amusing and others deeming it offensive, particularly among non-religious critics. Trump, who was attending the Vatican's conclave, clarified that his statement was a joke and proposed Cardinal Timothy Dolan of New York as a serious candidate. The conclave, which operates differently from secular elections with a focus on prayer and reflection, is set to choose a successor for Pope Francis. Potential candidates for the papacy include several notable cardinals such as Pietro Parolin and Luis Antonio Tagle, among others, highlighting the global interest and significance of the event in the Catholic Church.

President Trump posted an AI-generated image of himself as the pope on Truth Social as a light-hearted remark amidst the Vatican's selection process for a new pope, following the funeral of the late Pope Francis.

The image quickly went viral, sparking mixed reactions; some saw it as humorous, while others considered it offensive, with particular criticism from atheist circles.

Trump clarified that his comment about wanting to be pope was made in jest, and he endorsed Cardinal Timothy Dolan as a serious candidate for the papacy.

The Vatican's conclave, set to convene on May 7, differs from secular elections by emphasizing prayer and reflection over campaigning, as the cardinals seek guidance from the Holy Spirit.

Cardinal Timothy Dolan, along with other prominent cardinals like Pietro Parolin, Luis Antonio Tagle, and Raymond Burke, are among the contenders for succeeding Pope Francis, reflecting the diverse pool of potential leaders within the Catholic Church.

Dustan Grage, a Townhall columnist, defended the post against accusations of blasphemy, while Democratic activist Harry Sisson criticized Trump's behavior, calling him a 'man-child.'

The conclave's proceedings remind participants of the spiritual nature of their task, as expressed by a Franciscan preacher in 2013, who emphasized the belief that the Holy Spirit has already chosen the next pope.