Cardinal Timothy Dolan of New York has expressed disapproval over an AI-generated image shared by President Trump, depicting himself as a pontiff. This incident occurs shortly before the Vatican's conclave to select a new Catholic leader, following the death of Pope Francis. While attending the conclave in Rome, Dolan remarked that the portrayal of Trump in papal attire "was not appropriate," as reported by EFE. "In Italian, we would say 'fa fatto una brutta figura'—it’s a bad look," the New York archbishop told the press.
When questioned about the post from last Friday, Dolan expressed hope that Trump "had no involvement in its creation." Asked if he felt offended, he added, "Well, you know, it wasn't right." Despite serving on Trump's Religious Freedom Commission and previously describing Trump as serious about his Christian faith, Dolan joined the chorus of critics.
Widespread Criticism of Trump's Papal Image
The discontent isn't isolated to Dolan. Bishop Thomas Paprocki of Springfield, Illinois, urged the president to apologize, labeling the image as "deeply offensive to Catholics." He emphasized the timing, noting the mourning period for Pope Francis and the upcoming conclave to select a new pope. "This is a sacred time for us," Paprocki stated in a social media release.
Likewise, the New York State Catholic Conference condemned the image, insisting it lacked any "wit or humor." In a statement on X, the conference declared, "We have just laid to rest our beloved Pope Francis, and the cardinals are about to engage in a solemn conclave to choose a new successor of Saint Peter. Do not mock us."
Trump's Controversial Comments
The image's release coincided with a recent press briefing at the White House, where Trump stirred controversy by suggesting, "I'd like to be Pope. That would be my number one choice." The remark was met with swift backlash. "It's a sacrilegious provocation," tweeted Republicans Against Trump, adding, "A convict who cheated on his wife with a porn star mocking the Catholic faith insults millions."
Trump, in his typical self-assured manner, stated, "I would be a great Pope." Although he refrained from naming a favorite to succeed Francis, he did mention Timothy Dolan as an influential figure. Dolan, who participated in the 2013 conclave that elected Jorge Bergoglio as Pope Francis, is a notable figure in the American Church. His name has resurfaced—albeit modestly—in the speculations leading up to the new conclave.
Key Questions About Trump's Papal Image Controversy
Why did Cardinal Dolan criticize the image of Trump as Pope?
Cardinal Dolan criticized the image for being inappropriate, particularly given the recent death of Pope Francis and the upcoming conclave to select a new pope. He expressed concerns that the image was disrespectful.
How did other religious figures react to the image?
Bishop Thomas Paprocki and the New York State Catholic Conference also criticized the image, describing it as offensive and lacking humor. They highlighted the timing as especially disrespectful during a sacred period for Catholics.
What did Trump say about the role of Pope?
In a recent press briefing, Trump expressed a desire to be Pope, which prompted criticism. He later claimed he would be a great Pope, further fueling the controversy.