U.S. President Donald Trump made headlines on Tuesday after joking that he would like to become the next Pope. The remark came during a press event at the White House, just as the world prepares for the selection of a new Pope following the death of Pope Francis. The Vatican has confirmed that the Papal Conclave will begin on May 7 in Vatican City.
The president made the comment while answering questions on his 100th day in office during his second term. When asked who he would like to see as the new Pope, Trump smiled and said, “I’d like to be Pope. That would be my number one choice.”
Trump Attends Pope Francis’ Funeral
President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump attended the funeral of Pope Francis over the weekend. The service took place in front of St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City. It was watched by millions of people around the world. Many world leaders, royals, and church officials also attended.
Notable figures at the funeral included:
- Prince William
- King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia of Spain
- King Philippe and Queen Mathilde of Belgium
- UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer
- German Chancellor Olaf Scholz
Despite some speculation, President Trump was seated in a prominent position, not in the third row as expected. He was placed near other world leaders.
Controversy Over Attire and Departure
Trump drew criticism for his choice of clothing. While it is customary for male leaders to wear black at papal funerals, Trump wore a blue suit. In contrast, Melania Trump followed tradition by wearing a black dress and a black veil.
The couple also left the service immediately after the ceremony, instead of staying until after the burial. Some observers viewed this as a break from expected etiquette.
What Is the Papal Conclave?
The Papal Conclave is the process by which the Roman Catholic Church chooses a new Pope. It will begin on May 7 and take place in the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City. About 135 cardinals from around the world will gather for the vote. The meetings will be held in secret.
Once the cardinals reach a decision, white smoke will rise from the chimney of the chapel. This signal tells the world that a new Pope has been chosen.
Trump’s Remarks on the Next Pope
After joking that he would like to be Pope, Trump added that he had no strong preference for who should take the role. He said, “We have a cardinal that happens to be out of a place called New York who’s very good, so we’ll see what happens.”
It’s unclear which cardinal Trump was referring to. However, Cardinal Timothy Dolan, the Archbishop of New York, is a well-known figure in the Catholic Church.
Reaction to Trump’s Joke
Reactions to Trump’s joke about becoming Pope were mixed. Some saw it as humorous and light-hearted. Others criticized it as being in poor taste, especially so soon after the Pope’s funeral.
Religious scholars say that it is impossible for someone who is not a cardinal to be elected Pope. However, in rare historical cases, non-cardinals have been chosen—though none were non-clergy or heads of state.
The Significance of the New Pope
The next Pope will play a key role in shaping the future of the Catholic Church. Pope Francis was known for his focus on the poor, the environment, and social justice. The Church now faces many challenges, including declining membership in parts of the world and ongoing issues related to abuse scandals.
Whoever is chosen will be expected to continue reforms and address major global issues. The selection of a new Pope is a significant event not just for Catholics but for world politics and diplomacy.
