President Donald Trump has ignited controversy by sharing an AI-generated image of himself dressed in papal attire, leading to widespread criticism from Catholic leaders and sparking debates about the use of artificial intelligence in political and religious contexts.
The Controversial Image
On May 4, 2025, President Trump posted an AI-generated image on his Truth Social platform and the official White House X account, depicting himself wearing traditional papal garments and pointing skyward. The image was shared shortly after the funeral of Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21, 2025, during the Catholic Church’s official mourning period.
The timing and nature of the image drew immediate backlash from various quarters. Cardinal Timothy Dolan, the Archbishop of New York, expressed his disapproval, stating, “It wasn’t good. As Italians say, it was brutta figura (embarrassing).” He further added, “I hope he didn’t have anything to do with that.”
Reactions from the Catholic Community
The New York State Catholic Conference condemned the image, urging people not to mock the Church during a solemn time. They stated, “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.”
Other Catholic leaders, including Illinois Bishop Thomas Paprocki, demanded an apology, labeling the post deeply offensive during a time of mourning.
Political and Public Response
While many criticized the image as disrespectful, some of Trump’s allies defended the post. Vice President JD Vance, a Catholic convert, responded to criticisms by emphasizing the importance of humor and free expression. Senator Lindsey Graham also downplayed the controversy, suggesting the image was meant in jest.
The incident also caught the attention of popular media. “Saturday Night Live” mocked the image during its “Weekend Update” segment, with Colin Jost joking that Trump appeared to be seeking a “one-way ticket to hell.”
Ethical Implications of AI-Generated Content
This incident has reignited discussions about the ethical use of AI-generated images, especially in political and religious contexts. Experts warn that such images can be misleading and may damage reputations, emphasizing the need for clear guidelines and ethical standards in the use of AI technology.
