US Vice President JD Vance, who is Catholic, defended Donald Trump’s Truth Social post featuring an AI-generated image of Trump as pope, considering it merely humorous.
“As a general rule, I’m fine with people telling jokes and not fine with people starting stupid wars that kill thousands of my countrymen,” Vance stated on X on Saturday, addressing Bill Kristol’s query about disrespecting the holy father.
Following Pope Francis’s passing at age 88 on Easter Monday, the papal conclave is scheduled to commence on May 7 to select a successor. Vance, a Catholic, was amongst the final individuals to meet Pope Francis before his death.
Trump recently expressed his interest in leading the Catholic Church, suggesting himself as the prime candidate before recommending New York-based Cardinal Timothy Dolan for the position. Notably, no American cardinal has ever served as pope.
The New York State Catholic Conference’s official X account criticised Trump’s post, which the White House X account had shared.
“There is nothing clever or funny about this image, Mr. President. 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,” they stated.
Senator Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) appeared to participate in the jest, expressing support for Trump’s papal candidacy on X.
“Glad to report there is very positive reception and strong momentum for President Trump to be the next Pope. But I will be first to admit there has been some resistance!,” Graham posted. “Must keep your head down and plow forward — can’t let the naysayers win the day. Next week is crucial as the papal conclave convenes. … More updates to come!”