Only a few days after Pope Francis was honored worldwide, President Donald Trump made news with a daring and surprising comment on the direction of the Catholic Church. Trump shocked many when asked who he believes should succeed the late pope by implying that he might be a suitable candidate.
“I would want to be pope,” Trump said Tuesday during a news conference. “That would be my first choice..” Given the recent death of Pope Francis, who passed on Easter Monday, April 21, at the age of 88 from a brain stroke and heart failure, the former president’s comment—at 78 years old—stands out as one of his most memorable ones specifically.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, Pope Francis was sometimes referred to as the “People’s Pope” and honored for his commitment to serving the underprivileged and disenfranchised. Declaring him a fighter for “the poor, the downtrodden and the forgotten,” UK Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer paid tribute to his legacy.
Although many laughed at Trump’s remark, it spurred serious internet debate. Posting on X, Senator Lindsey Graham seemed to be endorsing the concept: “I was delighted to hear that President Trump is open to the notion of being the next Pope. Although this would be a dark horse contender, I would implore the Catholic faithful and papal conclave to maintain an open mind regarding this prospect! The first Pope-U.S. President combo has several benefits, he said. Watching for white smoke; Trump MMXXVIII!
Trump’s background calls into doubt his fit for such a position even with his joking claim. Attributes that deviate from conventional wisdom for a pope candidate, he identifies as a non-denominational Christian, has been married three times, and now holds the presidency of the United States.
Trump’s remarks remind us of his inclination to dominate news with surprising announcements as debates about the future leadership of the Catholic Church continue.
When questioned about possible successors, Donald Trump jokingly proposed himself as a contender to replace Pope Francis. He stated he had “no preference” over the choice, but he also expressed some unwelcome views about the choice of a new pope.
“We’ll see what happens; a cardinal from New York is quite gifted,” Trump said. Most people agree this cardinal is Timothy Dolan, the New York Archbishop. Dolan is not considered as a top possibility, but another American, Cardinal Joseph Tobin of Newark, has also surfaced as a contender. No U.S. citizen has ever been the pope historically; there are no signs that this will alter in not too distant future.
Beginning on May 7 in the Sistine Chapel, the Vatican conclave is set to see over 100 cardinals gather in private to choose the next pope. Although it’s not against any laws, there are particular requirements for candidates even if you’re joking about being pope. They had to be men, single, at least 35 years old, and—above all—Catholic. They also must have studied the Bible, canon law, or theology. Trump has not claimed official academic training in these areas despite his views on them.
Some users of today’s social media scene are playfully hypothesizing about the likelihood of a “Pope Trump.” Online, this concept has spurred a combination of comedy and analysis. Given the erratic character of modern society, such concepts can catch on fast.
Relatedly, Trump lately came under fire for his outfit to Pope Francis’ funeral. He showed up in a navy blue suit, which many thought unsuitable for a such a serious occasion. While other dignitaries followed the customary black clothing anticipated at the Vatican, Trump’s dress attracted criticism for striking out in a negative manner.
The disparities in apparel draw attention to cultural variations around important events and emphasizes how public personalities could draw criticism for their decisions.