The Vatican is seeking a new spiritual leader following Pope Francis’s recent death. Former President Trump expressed no specific preference for a successor but mentioned Cardinal Timothy Dolan of New York, who is not a leading candidate. Meanwhile, Republican Senator Lindsey Graham supported Trump’s unconventional suggestion for the papacy on social media, calling it a “dark horse candidate.” He encouraged the conclave and Catholic faithful to remain open-minded about this possibility, noting the potential advantages of having a Pope who is also a U.S. President. This development arrives amid the search for a new pope.
The nearly 2,000-year-old institution is on the lookout for a new spiritual leader following the passing of Pope Francis this month.
When questioned about who should succeed Francis, Trump responded, “I have no preference,” but went on to say: “I must mention, we have a cardinal from a place called New York who’s quite impressive, so we’ll see how it unfolds.”
The cardinal of New York, Timothy Dolan, is not expected to be among the top contenders to replace Francis. Historically, the U.S. has never had a pope.
Leading Republican Senator Lindsey Graham seemed to endorse Trump’s unlikely candidacy for the papacy, expressing on social media that he was “excited to hear” about it.
“This would be a true dark horse candidate, but I urge the papal conclave and Catholic believers to remain open to this potential!” Graham remarked. “The combination of a Pope and a U.S. President offers numerous advantages. Awaiting the white smoke…. Trump MMXXVIII!”
This story has been updated.