04
May
May
CATHOLIC BISHOPS REBUKE TRUMP FOR SHARING AI IMAGE OF HIMSELF AS POPE
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CapitalTimesNews / 4 days
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- 2 min read
The New York State Catholic Conference has condemned former U.S. President Donald Trump for posting an AI-generated image depicting himself dressed as the Pope. The organization, which represents the state’s Catholic bishops, expressed outrage over the post, saying it was insensitive and mocking. “There is nothing clever or funny about this image, Mr. President,” the Catholic Conference wrote in a statement. “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.” The image, which appeared on Trump’s Truth Social platform and was later reposted by the White House’s official X account, shows him in elaborate papal attire, including flowing white robes, a golden crucifix, and a mitre. The post sparked a mix of amusement, disbelief, and heated debate across social media platforms. The timing of the post has been widely criticized, coming just days after Pope Francis’ death and ahead of the papal conclave to elect his successor. Trump had previously joked about his interest in becoming the Pope, saying “I’d like to be pope, that would be my number one choice.” He also mentioned New York Cardinal Timothy Michael Dolan as a potential candidate, saying “I must say we have a cardinal that happens to be out of a place called New York who’s very good.” The Vatican’s daily conclave briefing on Saturday discussed the image, with Italian and Spanish news reports lamenting its poor taste and offensiveness. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt responded to the criticism, saying that “President Trump flew to Italy to pay his respects for Pope Francis and attend his funeral, and he has been a staunch champion for Catholics and religious liberty.” Trump’s actions have sparked controversy, with some defending his right to free speech and others criticizing his insensitivity towards the Catholic community. The incident highlights the complex relationship between politics and religion, particularly during sensitive events like the papal conclave.
