President Donald Trump is making waves once again — this time by throwing his own name into the ring for the most unexpected role yet: the next Pope.
“I’d Make a Great Pope” — Trump Teases Candidacy for Catholic Church Leader
Following the death of Pope Francis, Trump was asked who he thinks should lead the Catholic Church next. Without missing a beat, the 45th President quipped that he’s his own “No. 1 choice” for the job — a comment that instantly stirred headlines and online chatter.
Trump made it clear he was joking, later clarifying that he doesn’t have a serious preference, although he did mention Cardinal Timothy Dolan of New York as someone he thinks could handle the position.
Cardinal Dolan: The Real Contender?
Timothy Dolan, a conservative American cardinal appointed by Pope Benedict XVI in 2012, has a history of traditional stances — from opposing contraception to resisting cultural shifts like the removal of historical statues. He’s considered one of the few U.S. cardinals with enough global recognition to be part of the papal conversation, though non-European popes remain relatively rare.
Trump’s Papal ‘Campaign’? Bright Suit, Big Presence
Despite his tongue-in-cheek comments, Trump did make a high-profile appearance at Pope Francis’ funeral, where he stood out in a bright blue suit amid a sea of somber tones. The attention-grabbing outfit had some speculating whether he was peacocking for attention — or maybe just being Trump.
And while his presence raised eyebrows in Rome, canon law poses a significant barrier: Trump isn’t a cardinal, not clergy, and not Catholic — making his “candidacy” for pope entirely symbolic (or satirical).
Trump 2028… and the Papacy?
While Trump won’t be moving into the Vatican anytime soon, his flair for bold declarations continues. He’s already eyeing another White House term in 2028, and he’s selling “Trump 2028” merch to prove it.
For now, the Catholic Church will likely stick to tradition in selecting its next leader. But Trump’s quip only adds to the media circus surrounding his post-presidency ambitions — both political and now, apparently, spiritual.
