Following the passing of Pope Francis, former U.S. President Donald Trump has humorously suggested himself as a potential successor, despite not meeting several core qualifications for the papacy. The 78-year-old ex-president declared he was his own “number one choice” to replace Pope Francis, who died on Easter Monday at the age of 88 due to complications from a stroke.
Known as the “People’s Pope,” Francis was deeply respected for his compassion and advocacy for the marginalized, drawing heartfelt tributes from leaders around the world. The process to elect the next pope will officially begin on May 7, with over 100 cardinals gathering in the Sistine Chapel for a secret conclave. Yet, the role is far from open to public nomination, requiring candidates to be baptized Catholic males trained in theology and canon law. Still, Trump—undeterred by his non-Catholic background—boldly threw his hat into the ring. And that’s when things got even stranger…