A controversial AI-generated picture of U.S. President Donald Trump appearing to be the Pope has ignited an online storm of outrage and criticism from religious groups. The picture, shared on X (previously Twitter) by the White House’s official account, was only days after Pope Francis died, aged 88, from a stroke and heart failure.
The AI-generated photograph showed Trump clad in full papal regalia, standing in a way that mimicked the gravitas and seriousness of the Vatican. It was reportedly posted as a symbol or a joke, but its timing and context infuriated many.
Although the image was amusing to some internet users, it was highly offensive to others who alleged that the U.S. President was insulting the late Pope and showing disrespect to him at a time of grief.
Accusations of Insensitivity and Arrogance
One of the X users commented, “I thought this was posted by a meme page. It’s strange that this was shared off a government account.” Others pointed out the hypocrisy of the photo and the Trump administration’s professed lack of Christian values since coming back to office.
Commentators denounced the photo as “tone-deaf,” “inappropriate,” and even “dangerous,” excoriating Trump for attempting to take on moral high ground and divine status through photographic sleight of hand. “This picture isn’t satire—it’s propaganda,” said one viewer.
Another tweet said: “Trump as the Pope is a visual meant to symbolize divinity and ultimate power. It’s not democratic, it’s authoritarian.” The backlash from the public was swift and in large numbers, particularly from devout Catholics who were greatly upset by the photo.
White House Faces Backlash
The White House has not yet issued an apology or explanation, but several spokespeople have deflected questions to President Trump’s media team. Critics are demanding an official retraction and statement acknowledging the offense caused.
Others have raised additional alarms on the use of AI-created image in official communication from the government, especially sensitive religious or cultural contexts. “AI is okay, but it’s not for a plaything for politics,” asserted one Chicago-based religious leader.
Trump’s Words Fan Controversy
This comes as a reaction to remarks by President Trump during a press conference earlier this week. When queried about his opinion of Pope Francis’ successor, Trump humorously said he would want to be the next Pope, although he eventually clarified it as a joke.
He continued to say that the New York Cardinal would be a “very good” choice, something some perceived as politically driven and not respectful.
To pour salt into the wound, Trump was even admonished for wearing a blue suit to the Pope Francis’ funeral, contrary to the traditional black dress code required of male mourners during papal funerals.
Senator Lindsey Graham Responds
Adding to the controversy, South Carolina Senator Lindsey Graham posted a tongue-in-cheek note on X, saying that Catholics could be receptive to the notion of the U.S. President ultimately becoming Pope. His post, as sarcasm, was yet another to place on the list for critics who saw it as insensitive to a most revered religious calling.
Greater Concerns About AI and Leadership
This episode has stirred larger questions regarding how AI-created images. People is worried how AI can be used to manipulate the political storytelling. Specialists claim the image depicted Trump dapped in symbolic power. And, it can deceive to those unaware of what AI can do.
Final Thoughts
Trump’s AI-generated photo as the Pope may have been done in good fun, but the implications are serious. In an era where politics and technology are hand in hand, even one picture is full of enormous symbolic value. To many people, this was not a moment of humor, but of disrespect.
As the Catholic world laments the death of Pope Francis, critics are calling for more accountability, restraint, and empathy from those in power.
