Vice President J.D. Vance defended President Trump on Saturday following backlash over an AI-generated image depicting Trump as pope, which was posted just days after the death of Pope Francis. Critics—including Rep. Ted Lieu (D-Calif.) and the Catholic Bishops of New York—accused Trump of mocking Catholic traditions during a solemn period.
Vance responded to criticism from conservative commentator Bill Kristol on X, saying, “I’m fine with people telling jokes and not fine with people starting stupid wars,” referencing Kristol’s support for the 2003 Iraq invasion. Vance, a Catholic convert, previously shared that he met Pope Francis shortly before his death and called the moment “a sign from God.”
Trump’s image, originally posted on Truth Social and reshared by the White House, has sparked debate within the Catholic community and political sphere. While some called it offensive, Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) responded with sarcasm, joking about Trump becoming the next pope.
Critics also noted the timing, with cardinals scheduled to begin the papal conclave on May 7 and concerns rising about the administration’s focus amid economic challenges.
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