Lindsey Graham Urges Conclave to Consider Trump as Potential Pope
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/Lindsey-Graham-Donald-Trump-043025-881d5fffcfff4d6f9cbbc7106062a841.jpg)
South Carolina Senator Lindsey Graham has sparked controversy by suggesting that the papal conclave should keep an “open mind” about naming former President Donald Trump as the next Pope. This surprising statement comes on the heels of Trump himself jokingly nominating himself to succeed the late Pope Francis, who recently passed away at 88 years old.
During a press interview on Tuesday, April 29, Trump was asked about his preferred choice for the new pontiff, to which he lightheartedly responded, “I’d like to be pope. That would be my number one choice.” This offhand comment has garnered attention from both supporters and critics alike.
Graham took to social media to weigh in on Trump’s potential candidacy for the papacy. He expressed his excitement at the idea of Trump becoming the next Pope and called on the papal conclave and Catholic faithful to consider this unexpected possibility. Graham even hinted at the prospect of a historic combination of roles with the “first Pope-U.S. President combination.”
However, Graham’s post did not solely focus on Trump’s papal aspirations but also hinted at a potential political comeback. By referencing “Trump MMXXVIII,” using Roman numerals for the year 2028, the senator hinted at a future presidential run by Trump. This suggestion aligns with the desires of many Trump supporters who hope to see him pursue a third term in office.
Following his playful remarks about becoming Pope, Trump clarified that he holds no particular preference for the forthcoming papal conclave scheduled to begin on May 7. He did, however, mention his regard for New York Archbishop Timothy Dolan, hinting at a potential candidate he admires.
While the idea of an American Pope is not entirely out of the realm of possibility, experts believe it is highly improbable. The current frontrunners for the position include prominent cardinals from around the world, indicating a global representation in the selection process. Dr. Bill Cavanaugh, a professor of Catholic studies, emphasised the unlikelihood of an American Pope due to the United States’ existing influence.
As the anticipation builds for the selection of the next Pope, the unexpected suggestion of Trump as a potential candidate has added an intriguing twist to the upcoming papal conclave. Regardless of the outcome, this unusual proposal has certainly sparked discussions and raised eyebrows within both political and religious circles.
In conclusion, the intersection of politics and religion has once again captured public attention, with Lindsey Graham’s call for the papal conclave to consider Trump as a candidate for the papacy. The upcoming selection of the new Pope promises to be an eventful and significant occasion, shaping the future of the Catholic Church. Time will tell if Trump’s jestful remark will have any lasting implications on the centuries-old tradition of electing a new pontiff.