Catholic group criticizes Trump over AI-generated image of himself as Pope

US President Donald Trump is facing backlash from Catholic groups after posting an AI-generated image of himself dressed as the Pope.

The image, shared on the official White House social media accounts, shows Trump wearing a white cassock and a pointed mitre, attire traditionally worn by bishops. The post came as Catholics were mourning the death of Pope Francis on April 21, with preparations underway to select his successor.

The New York State Catholic Conference condemned the post, accusing Trump of mocking the Catholic faith. This post followed comments Trump made days earlier, joking about wanting to become the Pope.

Trump is not the first US president to be accused of mocking Catholicism. Former President Joe Biden sparked outrage last year when he made a sign of the cross at a pro-abortion rights rally in Tampa, Florida. However, the Vatican declined to comment on the Trump post during a press briefing on Saturday, as the Holy See prepares for the conclave to elect a new pope starting Wednesday.

The AI-generated image, posted on Friday night, shows Trump with a solemn face, wearing the papal attire and a large cross around his neck, raising his finger in a gesture often associated with the pope.

The New York State Catholic Conference, which represents bishops from New York, expressed its disapproval on X, stating, “There is nothing clever or funny about this image, Mr. President. We have just buried our beloved Pope Francis, and cardinals are preparing to enter the solemn conclave to elect the new successor of St. Peter. Do not mock us.”

Former Italian Prime Minister Matteo Renzi also criticized the image, calling it offensive and an insult to believers and institutions.

However, the White House rejected suggestions that Trump was mocking the papacy. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated, “President Trump traveled to Italy to pay his respects to Pope Francis and attend his burial. He is a strong advocate for Catholics and religious liberty.”