by 
International Desk, April 30, 2025
Following the recent passing of Pope Francis, the Catholic Church is in the process of selecting a new pope. On Tuesday, April 29, former U.S. President Donald Trump was asked who he would like to see as the next pope. In a lighthearted response, Trump quipped, “I want to be pope. That’s my number one choice.”
However, he quickly clarified that he has no specific preference, though he mentioned there is a “good cardinal” in New York. “Let’s see what happens,” Trump added.
Despite his jest, Trump is ineligible to become pope. Not only is he one of the busiest public figures, but he has also been married three times. Papal candidates are required to be celibate and unmarried.
According to Reuters, Cardinal Timothy Dolan of New York, whom Trump likely referred to, is not on the shortlist for the next pope. However, Cardinal Joseph Tobin, the Archbishop of Newark, New Jersey, is a U.S. candidate on the list. No American has ever been elected pope.
Last week, Trump, accompanied by his wife Melania, visited Vatican City to attend Pope Francis’ funeral.
AI/MR
