The White House ignited controversy by posting an AI-generated image of President Donald Trump as the Pope, drawing sharp criticism from Catholic leaders and some Republicans.

The May 2 image, shared on the official @WhiteHouse X account on May 3, 2025, depicts Trump in papal attire, seated on a throne with a crucifix necklace, just days before the Vatican conclave to elect a new pope following Pope Francis’ death at the age of 88. 

Trump’s interest in the papacy surfaced when he told reporters on April 29, “I’d like to be Pope. That would be my number one choice.” Though delivered with a smirk, the comment underscored Trump’s penchant for provocative statements, even on sacred matters. As a Protestant, Trump does not meet the Catholic Church’s requirement for papal candidates, who must be baptized Catholic males.

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Catholic media outlet The Catholic Talk Show @CatholicTalkSho denounced the post, writing on X, “Take this down @POTUS.”

Another user, Don Orca @CatholicOrca, posted  “Trump would be a more left wing Pope than Francis btw.”

Some commenters responded positively, like political commentator Gunther Eagleman, who simply posted, “Epic!”

Regardless of criticism, Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt noted that “President Trump flew to Italy to pay his respects to Pope Francis and attend his funeral, and he has been a staunch champion for Catholics and religious liberty,” per the BBC.

Just days earlier, The Dallas Express reported that Sen. Mike Lee of Utah suggested Acting National Security Advisor and Secretary of State Marco Rubio as a papal candidate, sharing an AI-generated image of Rubio in pontifical robes. The Rubio image did not draw any widespread backlash. Lee’s lighthearted tweet, “I’m just saying,” added a satirical twist to the ongoing fascination with American politicians and the papacy.

The Papal Conclave will begin on May 7.