Trump Faces Backlash Over AI Image as Pope Amid Mourning for Pope Francis

Trump has drawn criticism from Catholic leaders and figures after sharing an AI image of himself as the Pope, coinciding with mourning for Pope Francis. The backlash reflects sensitivity around the late pontiff's legacy as the Vatican prepares for a conclave to choose his successor.

In a move that has stirred controversy, former President Donald Trump has come under fire for posting an AI-generated image of himself depicted as the Pope. This image was shared through official White House social media accounts just as Catholics are mourning the death of Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21, and are gearing up to choose the next pope.

The New York State Catholic Conference has condemned the post, accusing Trump of mocking the Catholic faith during a time of grief. The timing of the image is particularly contentious, given that it follows days after Trump made a humorous remark to reporters expressing a desire to be Pope himself.

Criticism of Trump's actions has been widespread, with former Italian Prime Minister Matteo Renzi labeling the image offensive to believers and an insult to the papacy. "This is an image that offends believers, insults institutions, and shows that the leader of the right-wing world enjoys clowning around," Renzi wrote in a post on X.

Nonetheless, the White House has pushed back against claims that Trump was disrespecting the papacy. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt emphasized that Trump attended Pope Francis's funeral and has been a strong advocate for Catholic rights and religious freedom.

As the Vatican prepares to hold a conclave to select a new pope starting Wednesday, the debate around the appropriateness of Trump's image continues to loom large in discussions within the Catholic community. While his supporters defend his actions, many others see this as a moment of insensitivity marking a stark divide over respect for religious institutions.