Trump’s photo as pope angry the Catholic community

An image generated with artificial intelligence showing President Donald Trump dressed as a pope, sitting on a throne, has caused strong reactions from the Catholic community in the US and Italy. The photo was posted on Friday on the official social networks of Trump and the White House, just days before the Vatican Conclusion for the New Pope’s election.

Cardinal Timothy Dolan, New York Archbishop, told the media after a ministry in Rome: « I hope the president has not had a hand in this. It was a brutal figure-a shame, as the Italians say. »

Even the New York Catholic Conference reacted angrily: « There is nothing smart or ridiculous in this image, Mr. President. We have just buried Pope Francis and we are in a solemn moment for the church. Don’t make fun of us. »

While many described the action as inappropriate and at the wrong time, Vice President JD Vance, the Catholic itself, defended the post. When conservative commentator Bill Kristol asked if he approved this « lack of respect », he replied: « I generally agree with the jokes.

White House spokeswoman Caroline Leavitt told the Associated Press that President Trump traveled to Italy to honor Pope Francis and has always been a strong defender of religious freedom and Catholics.

The conclusions of the election of the new Pope will officially launch on Wednesday, May 7.