President Trump AI Pope Image Sparks Backlash from US Catholic Bishops

President Donald Trump has ignited a firestorm of criticism after sharing an AI-generated image depicting himself as the pope. The image, posted on his Truth Social platform and later shared by the official White House X account. This comes amid the Catholic Church’s mourning period for Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21, 2025. The timing of the post, just days before the papal conclave set to begin on May 7. It has been widely condemned as disrespectful and offensive.

A Controversial President Trump Post Amid Mourning

The AI-generated image shows President Trump seated in an ornate chair. Additionally, dressed in white papal vestments and headdress, with a finger raised. This depiction was shared shortly after Trump attended Pope Francis’s funeral at St. Peter’s Basilica. This is where he met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The image’s release during the official nine-day mourning period has been perceived by many as a mockery of the solemnity of the occasion.

Backlash from Catholic Leaders

Catholic leaders have expressed strong disapproval of the image. The New York State Catholic Conference, representing the state’s bishops, issued a direct rebuke:

“There is nothing clever or funny about this image, Mr. President. We just buried our beloved Pope Francis and the cardinals are about to enter a solemn conclave to elect a new successor of St. Peter. Do not mock us.”

Italian media outlets and political figures also criticized the post. A former Italian Prime Minister labeled the image as shameful, saying it offends believers, insults institutions, and shows the leader of the right-wing world enjoys clowning around.

Defences and Justifications from President Trump Team

Despite the backlash, some of Trump’s allies have defended the post. Vice President JD Vance, a Catholic who met with Pope Francis shortly before his death, dismissed the image as a joke. Also, suggesting humor is preferable to engaging in destructive wars. Senator Lindsey Graham also joined in the light-hearted commentary, humorously stating there was momentum behind a Trump papacy.

The White House responded to the criticism by emphasizing President Trump’s respect for the Catholic Church. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said the president flew to Italy to pay respects at the pope’s funeral and has been a staunch champion for Catholics and religious liberty.

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Broader Implications

This incident highlights the growing concerns over the use of AI-generated content, especially in sensitive contexts. The Vatican has previously warned about the potential dangers of AI technology, including deepfakes that can mislead and offend. A recent document from the Church emphasized the ethical challenges posed by AI and stressed the importance of using technology responsibly.

Conclusion

President Trump AI-generated image of himself as the pope has sparked significant controversy. Thus, drawing criticism from Catholic leaders and international figures. While some defend the post as humorous, many view it as a disrespectful act during a period of mourning and religious significance. The episode underscores the need for caution in using AI-generated content, especially when it touches on faith and tradition.