From Staff Writer
A digitally altered image of Donald Trump dressed as the Pope has ignited a storm of criticism from Catholic leaders and faithful around the world, as the Church continues to observe Novemdiales, the nine-day mourning period following the death of Pope Francis.
The former U.S. president posted the AI-generated image on social media late Friday, depicting himself in full papal regalia — white cassock, mitre, and a golden cross. The timing of the post has been widely condemned as inappropriate and insensitive, coming just days after Pope Francis’s funeral and as millions of Catholics engage in prayer and reflection.
The image was quickly shared by the official White House account on X (formerly Twitter), prompting backlash from religious institutions and political figures alike. Critics argue the post trivialises a period of solemn mourning and disrespects the memory of the late pontiff, who passed away on Easter Monday at the age of 88.
The funeral, held in St Peter’s Square on 26 April, drew global leaders and dignitaries, including Trump himself, who had travelled to Rome to pay his respects. Despite the appearance of reverence, his subsequent online behaviour has been perceived by many as undermining the dignity of the occasion.
The New York State Catholic Conference labelled the image “mocking” and “deeply offensive,” while Jesuit priest and author James Martin described the post as “deeply disrespectful,” noting that the gesture would have been met with fierce condemnation had it come from a political opponent of Trump.
“It offends believers, insults institutions and shows that the leader of the right-wing world enjoys clowning around,” wrote former Italian Prime Minister Matteo Renzi in his own critical post on social media.
In contrast, Trump ally Senator Lindsey Graham appeared to endorse the image, jokingly suggesting there was “strong momentum” for Trump to become the next pope. The remark added fuel to the growing outrage, which many see as part of a wider pattern of religious insensitivity.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt attempted to downplay the controversy, stating that President Trump “has been a staunch champion for Catholics and religious liberty.” However, the gesture has done little to quell criticism, particularly among Catholic leaders already grappling with grief.
Michael Steele, a Catholic and former chair of the Republican National Committee, accused Trump of narcissism and labelled the post “unserious,” writing: “At 78 he remains a 10-year-old child, emotionally scarred and broken.”
As cardinals prepare to enter the conclave at the Vatican on 7 May to select the next pontiff, many Catholic voices have urged political figures to show restraint and respect during this sacred time.
With over a billion Catholics mourning the passing of Pope Francis — a leader remembered for his humility, compassion, and commitment to social justice — many view Trump’s social media stunt as not only mistimed, but profoundly out of touch.
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