Staying true to his provocative style and penchant for unexpected statements, the President of the United States, Donald Trump, once again surprised everyone by joking about the idea of becoming Pope.
During a press conference at the White House, just minutes before departing for Michigan for his event commemorating the first 100 days in office, Trump responded to a question about the next Pope with a remark that caused a stir: "I would like to be Pope. That would be my number one choice."
The statement, made in a clearly ironic tone, comes amid the papal succession process following the death of Francisco on April 21.
The Catholic Church is preparing for a new conclave that will begin on May 7 in the Vatican, where more than 100 cardinals will elect the next spiritual leader of over a billion Catholics worldwide. Trump, although Protestant and outside the ecclesiastical structure, did not hesitate to jokingly throw his name into the mix.
"I would be a great Pope," he stated with his usual self-confidence.
And although he clarified that he does not have clear favorites to succeed Francis, he did highlight one priest in particular: "I must say that there is a cardinal from a place called New York who is very good," he said, referring to Timothy Dolan, the archbishop of that city and one of the American representatives at the conclave.
Dolan, who previously participated in the 2013 conclave that elected Jorge Bergoglio as Pope Francis, is a well-known figure in the American Church. On that occasion, he received a couple of votes during the early rounds, and now his name is once again circulating—though in a muted way—in the speculations leading up to the conclave.
Alongside him, the names of Raymond Burke, from the more conservative wing, and Robert Prevost, a fluent Spanish speaker and close to Francis's reformist legacy, are also being mentioned.
A funeral, a message of respect, and an image of diplomacy
The mention of Trump regarding the papacy occurs days after his attendance at the funeral of Pope Francis, held on April 26 at St. Peter's Basilica in Rome, which he attended with First Lady Melania Trump.
Days before, Trump posted a short but heartfelt message on his Truth Social network after the news of the Pontiff's passing: "May he rest in peace, Pope Francis! May God bless him and all his loved ones!".
The funeral proceedings also served as the setting for an unexpected diplomatic moment, which many view as the first miracle of Francisco: a brief yet symbolic meeting between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
The dialogue, lasting around 15 minutes, took place inside the Basilica before the start of the mass. French President Emmanuel Macron was also present, and both leaders exchanged words in a cordial atmosphere.
Zelenski described the meeting as "positive" and said they discussed "the protection of the lives of the Ukrainian people, a total and unconditional ceasefire, and lasting peace."
More than a joke
Although Trump's statement about wanting to be Pope was clearly made in jest, its impact has been significant.
Some have viewed it as an example of her tendency to absorb media attention even in solemn contexts, while others interpret it as a peculiar way to pay homage to the role of the Pontiff in global politics and spirituality.
In any case, the possibility of a "Pope Trump" will remain a peculiar anecdote in a context marked by intense religious, geopolitical, and social discussions. What is certain is that, once again, Donald Trump succeeded in doing what he does best: generating headlines.
Frequently Asked Questions about Donald Trump's Statements and the Papal Context
Does Donald Trump really want to be Pope?
Donald Trump's statement about wanting to be Pope was made in jest. During a press conference, the former President of the United States ironically mentioned that he would like to be Pope, generating headlines and media buzz. However, he has no serious intention of running for the papacy, as he is Protestant and outside the Catholic Church's ecclesiastical structure.
What was the context of the meeting between Trump and Zelensky in Rome?
The meeting between Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky took place at the Vatican before the funeral of Pope Francis. The encounter was brief but significant, where they discussed issues such as the protection of Ukrainian lives and the pursuit of a total and unconditional ceasefire in the conflict with Russia. This meeting has been viewed as an important diplomatic gesture amid geopolitical tensions.
What is known about the papal succession process following the death of Pope Francis?
After the death of Pope Francis, the Catholic Church is preparing for a new conclave that will begin on May 7. During this conclave, more than 100 cardinals will gather in the Vatican to elect the next spiritual leader of the Catholic Church. This process takes place in the Sistine Chapel and follows a rigorous protocol established by the apostolic constitution Universi Dominici Gregis.
How has Trump reacted to the death of Pope Francis?
Donald Trump showed a gesture of respect following the death of Pope Francis. He posted a brief and sober message on his Truth Social network, expressing "Rest in peace, Pope Francis! May God bless him and all his loved ones!" He also ordered that the flags of the United States be flown at half-mast in mourning for the pontiff.
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