AI-generated image depicting Trump as the Pope is posted on social media by Trump himself.

A Mad Cap Idea: Donald Trump's Bold (and Bizarre) Aspiration to Don the Papal Tiara

Straying Away from the Norm

In an unexpected turn of events, America's President, Donald Trump, has thrown his hat (or rather, the papal tiara) into the ring, expressing a delightful fancy to strut in pontifical attire. Trump, in a jovial conversation with a gaggle of journalists, admitted, "I'd kill for the Pope gig. That'd be my top pick!" [3]

Not one to shy away from the spotlight, Trump shared his affection for the role just weeks before the much-anticipated conclave to pick a new Pope, following Pope Francis's demise. The passing of Pope Francis, who respired his last breath on April 21, 2025, after enduring a prolonged ailment, has paved the way for the rigmarole to elect a successor, set to commence on May 7, 2025 [1][2].

The Unorthodox Pope-nominee

According to Church rules, only cardinals under the age of 80 are eligible to participate in the papal election. Approximately 135 cardinals are expected to throw their hats into the ring, with over 252 cardinals vying for the coveted position.

A surprising suggestion from Trump was Cardinal Timothy Dolan, the Archbishop of New York, as a fitting candidate for the papacy. Dolan, while not a front-runner, could potentially surprise the world with a win [3].

The Pandemonium Unfolds

Trump's quip about the papacy, coupled with his audacious Truth Social post featuring an AI-generated image of himself adorned as the Pope, has sparked a tempest of reactions, swiftly making headlines worldwide [1][2].

Things to Ponder

Trump's audacious aspiration to don the mantle of the head of the Catholic Church has caused quite a commotion. The political sphere, religious leaders, and the public at large have all expressed their sentiments, with mixed reactions ranging from delight to outright aghast.

The audacious statement made by Donald Trump during a conversation with journalists, despite not being Catholic himself and his history of three wedlocks, has been viewed as bold, yet controversial and disrespectful, especially during a period of mourning for Pope Francis [2][3].

Trump's audacious and outlandish remarks have also fueled the perception of his megalomania, with the Italian press labeling them as evidence of "pathological megalomania." [2]

Could Trump's endorsement of Cardinal Dolan unwittingly sway the outcome of the conclave? The secrecy and isolation of the conclave process are designed to minimize external influences, and Trump's vocal support may potentially be perceived as inappropriate or even detrimental to Dolan's chances [2].

The widespread reaction to Trump's comments serves as a vivid reminder of the reverence and significance attached to the papacy, particularly in Italy and amongst Catholics the world over. The gravity surrounding the election of a new Pope stands in stark contrast to Trump's seemingly nonchalant remarks [2].

Despite Donald Trump expressing a desire for the Pope role in 2025, Church rules only allow cardinals under the age of 80 to participate in the election.
Trump's suggestion of Cardinal Timothy Dolan as a fitting candidate for the papacy has been proposed by some, with over 252 cardinals vying for the position.
The religious and political worlds have responded with mixed reactions to Trump's audacious aspiration to become the head of the Catholic Church.
The extended mourning period for Pope Francis has seen a swift reaction worldwide to Trump's bold statement and his Truth Social post featuring an AI-generated image of himself as the Pope.
As the public expresses their sentiments about Trump's unconventional comments, the secrecy and isolation of the papal election process have come into focus, raising questions about the potential impact of external influences.
Donald Trump's remarks about the papacy have sparked debates on social media regarding political involvement in religion and the importance of adhering to tradition during times of mourning.
The Italian press has labeled Trump's audacious statements as evidence of "pathological megalomania," further fueling discussions about his appropriateness for the papal role and the reverence attached to the position of Pope in Catholicism.