US President Donald Trump has stirred a mix of laughter, shock and spirited debate after posting an AI-generated image of himself dressed as the pope on his Truth Social platform.

The Image, which quickly gained traction online and was later reposted by the White House?s official X (formerly Twitter) account on Saturday, portrays Trump in full papal regalia?complete with flowing white robes, a golden crucifix, a mitre, and his trademark pointed finger raised skyward.

The post follows a tongue-in-cheek remark by Trump earlier in the week. When asked by reporters who he supported as the next pope, Trump quipped: ?I?d like to be pope, that would be my number one choice,? drawing chuckles from the press corps.

The comment came just days before the conclave convened to select a new pope following the death of Pope Francis on April 21.

While Trump refrained from naming a preferred successor, he hinted at admiration for ?a very good? cardinal in New York?widely believed to be Archbishop Timothy Dolan, a known theological conservative and vocal opponent of abortion.

Trump also made headlines last week with his attendance at Pope Francis? funeral, marking his first official international appearance since returning to office.

The AI image has sparked a flurry of reactions across political and religious circles, with critics questioning the tastefulness of the post, while supporters lauded it as classic Trump showmanship. (The Nation)

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