"Do Not Mock Us": Trump Criticized for AI Image of Himself as the Pope

On May 5, 2025, President Donald Trump sparked outrage after sharing an AI-generated image of himself dressed as the Pope. The image, featuring Trump in full papal attire wielding a red lightsaber, was also reposted by the White House’s official social media account, intensifying the backlash.

The post came shortly after Pope Francis’s funeral and just before the upcoming papal conclave, leading many to call it disrespectful and ill-timed. Catholic leaders condemned the image, calling it inappropriate and offensive to religious communities.

In response, Trump brushed off the criticism, saying the image was "just a joke" and meant to be lighthearted. He denied creating it himself and said Melania Trump thought it was “cute.”

Experts, however, raised concerns over the use of AI-generated content in politics. Some warned that these visuals can blur the line between reality and fiction, influencing public perception and fueling political narratives.

This incident highlights growing concerns about the ethical use of AI in public discourse and the respect owed to cultural and religious symbols.