Days before the papal conclave to elect Pope Francis' successor, President Trump's AI-generated image of himself in papal attire led to widespread criticism. Shared on Truth Social and later by the White House, the image offended many, including Catholic bishops in New York and Italian officials. Critics condemned it during a period of mourning—Francis passed on April 21. Trump's previous remarks about wanting to be pope and endorsing Cardinal Dolan for the role added controversy. Despite backlash, some defended Trump's humor, highlighting conflicts between Trump and the Vatican's stance on immigration.