True to his provocative nature and penchant for unexpected remarks, former U.S. President Donald Trump caught many off guard by joking about becoming the Pope. During a press briefing at the White House, right before heading to Michigan to commemorate his first 100 days in office, Trump responded to a question about the next Pope with a statement that stirred quite a reaction: "I'd like to be Pope. That would be my number one choice."
This statement, delivered with an unmistakably ironic tone, comes amid the papal succession process following the death of Pope Francis on April 21. The Catholic Church is preparing for a new conclave starting May 7 at the Vatican, where over 100 cardinals will elect the new spiritual leader for more than a billion Catholics worldwide. Despite being a Protestant and external to the ecclesiastical hierarchy, Trump playfully tossed his name into the mix.
"I would be a great Pope," he asserted with his characteristic self-assurance. Although he clarified he doesn't have any clear favorites to succeed Francis, he did highlight one particular cleric: "I must say there's a cardinal from a place called New York who's very good," he said, referring to Timothy Dolan, the archbishop of New York and one of the U.S. representatives in the conclave.
Dolan, who participated in the 2013 conclave that elected Jorge Bergoglio as Pope Francis, is a well-known figure in the American Church. Back then, he received a few votes during the initial rounds, and now his name resurfaces—albeit moderately—in the pre-conclave speculations. Alongside him, names like Raymond Burke, from the more conservative wing, and Robert Prevost, a fluent Spanish speaker close to Francis' reformist legacy, are also mentioned.
An Unexpected Diplomatic Moment at a Funeral
Trump's mention of the papacy came just days after attending the funeral of Pope Francis, held on April 26 at St. Peter's Basilica in Rome, where he was accompanied by First Lady Melania Trump. Prior to the event, Trump had shared a brief yet heartfelt message on his social media platform Truth Social after hearing of the Pontiff's passing: "Rest in peace, Pope Francis! May God bless him and all his loved ones!"
The funeral also set the stage for an unexpected diplomatic moment, which many view as the first miracle of Francis: a brief yet symbolic meeting between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The conversation, lasting around 15 minutes, took place inside the Basilica before the Mass began. French President Emmanuel Macron was also present, exchanging words in a cordial environment with both leaders.
Zelensky described the meeting as "positive" and mentioned discussing "the protection of Ukrainian lives, a total and unconditional ceasefire, and lasting peace."
More Than Just a Quip
While Trump's remark about wanting to be Pope was clearly a jest, its impact has been notable. Some view it as an example of his tendency to seize the media spotlight even in solemn contexts, while others interpret it as a unique homage to the Pope's role in global politics and spirituality.
Ultimately, the notion of a "Pope Trump" will remain a curious anecdote amid a backdrop of intense religious, geopolitical, and social discussions. Nonetheless, Donald Trump once again proved his expertise in generating headlines.
Frequently Asked Questions About Trump and the Papacy
Was Donald Trump serious about becoming Pope?
No, Donald Trump's comments about becoming Pope were made in a clearly joking manner during a press briefing.
Why did Trump mention Timothy Dolan?
Trump mentioned Timothy Dolan, the archbishop of New York, as a notable American cleric in the context of the upcoming papal conclave.
What was the significance of Trump's meeting with Zelensky at the funeral?
The meeting was seen as a positive diplomatic engagement, where discussions focused on peace and the protection of Ukrainian lives.