Trump Reveals His Shocking Choice for the Next Pope

In a move that left many Catholics and critics alike stunned, President Donald Trump casually suggested himself as the next pope — and then floated a highly political American cardinal as a potential successor to Pope Francis, following the pontiff’s funeral this past weekend.

Speaking to reporters on the White House lawn after returning from the Vatican ceremony, Trump couldn’t resist turning a solemn global moment into another self-referential headline.

“I’d like to be pope,” he smirked. “That would be my number one choice.”

While Trump chalked it up to a joke, critics saw it as yet another example of the president’s penchant for inserting himself into sacred spaces, even when decorum calls for restraint.

Pressed for a more serious answer, Trump offered a hint of favoritism for a domestic candidate — and a familiar name.

“We have a very good cardinal, happens to be out of a place called New York,” he said, referring to Cardinal Timothy Dolan. “We’ll see what happens.”

Dolan: Trump Ally, Not Papal Frontrunner

Cardinal Dolan, a conservative cleric known for cozying up to right-wing politicians, gave the invocation at Trump’s second inauguration and presided over a U.S.-based memorial mass for Pope Francis at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York. He also shared a laugh with Trump at the Alfred E. Smith Foundation Dinner in 2024, a moment that drew criticism for its political undertones.

“Dolan has aligned himself far too often with partisan politics,” said Dr. Maria Sanchez, a theologian at Georgetown University. “The idea of him leading the global Catholic Church — especially in a post-Francis era that emphasized humility and inclusivity — is hard to imagine.”

While technically an American could be chosen as pope, experts say the Vatican is wary of aligning the Church with any one superpower, especially one as divisive on the world stage as the United States under Trump.

“There’s almost zero chance the next pope will be American,” said Dr. Bill Cavanaugh, professor of Catholic studies at DePaul University. “The Vatican doesn’t want to appear beholden to U.S. interests, particularly under such a polarizing figure.”

Francis’ Legacy — and the Stakes of the Conclave

The upcoming conclave on May 7 comes at a critical juncture for the Catholic Church. Pope Francis, whose papacy championed the poor, challenged capitalism, and reached out to marginalized groups, left behind a Church both inspired and internally divided.

His likely successors — including Cardinals Luis Tagle (Philippines), Fridolin Ambongo (DR Congo), Pietro Parolin (Vatican), and Peter Erdo (Hungary) — represent a wide range of theological and geopolitical leanings. But none hail from the U.S., a fact that has disappointed some conservative American Catholics hoping for a sharp turn away from Francis’ progressive legacy.

Melania’s Role and the Funeral Optics

Trump’s wife, Melania, who has been largely absent from public life, joined him at the funeral. April 26 also marked her 55th birthday — a fact the former president reportedly brought up to aides during the somber event, according to a White House source. The first lady, a practicing Catholic, was reportedly “honored” to attend.

Still, Trump raised eyebrows for attending in a navy suit and blue tie, rather than the traditional black worn at Catholic funerals. Though the Vatican did not require a strict dress code, many interpreted the choice as another instance of Trump thumbing his nose at tradition.

“He always makes it about himself,” said Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-MD). “Even at a papal funeral, it becomes Trump’s show.”

From the White House to the Vatican?

Trump’s papal ambitions may have been delivered with a chuckle, but they underscore his ongoing thirst for dominance over global institutions — religious or otherwise.

“Whether it’s NATO, the UN, or the Catholic Church, he wants to be the loudest voice in the room,” said historian Sarah Churchwell. “The problem is, the world is listening — and many aren’t laughing.”

As the Church prepares for one of its most consequential leadership votes in decades, Trump’s commentary once again highlights how little respect he holds for institutions he cannot control.

Should I prepare an alternative version with a more historical focus or one targeting a Catholic audience?