The New York State Catholic Conference has expressed its disapproval of U.S. President Donald Trump for sharing an AI-generated image that depicts him dressed as the Pope.
Representing the state’s Catholic bishops in matters of law and social justice, the organisation voiced its outrage over the post.
In a statement released on Saturday via X, the Catholic Conference stated, “There is nothing clever or funny about this image, Mr President. We just buried our beloved Pope Francis and the cardinals are about to enter a solemn conclave to elect a new successor of St Peter. Do not mock us.”
The contentious image, initially posted on Trump’s Truth Social platform and subsequently shared by the White House’s official X account, features him in elaborate papal garb — including flowing white robes, a golden crucifix, and a mitre — with one finger raised towards the sky.
The digitally manipulated photo has ignited a mix of amusement, disbelief, and intense debate across various social media platforms.
This post surfaced shortly after Trump jokingly remarked to reporters, “I’d like to be pope, that would be my number one choice,” when asked whom he would support as the next pontiff.
His comments came just before the commencement of the papal conclave tasked with electing a successor to Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21.
Trump attended Pope Francis’ funeral last week, marking his first international appearance since resuming public office.
