Trump weighs in on next Pope, reveals ideal successor to Pope Francis

U.S. President Donald Trump has weighed in on the ongoing global conversation about who will succeed the late Pope Francis, naming Cardinal Timothy Dolan of New York as someone he believes would be a “good fit” for the role.

Trump made the remark while speaking with reporters about the future of the Catholic Church’s leadership following the historic passing of Pope Francis, the first pontiff from Latin America.

In his usual candid style, Trump also cracked a joke, saying he wouldn’t mind becoming pope himself, calling it his “number one choice.” He quickly clarified that he was joking and added that while he doesn’t have a preferred candidate, he holds Cardinal Dolan in high regard.

Although Dolan is widely respected within the U.S. and abroad, he is not currently seen as a frontrunner among Vatican insiders. Another American cleric, Cardinal Joseph Tobin of Newark, New Jersey, is believed to be on a shortlist of potential contenders — even though no American has ever ascended to the papacy.

Trump’s comments come despite a history of tension between him and the late Pope Francis, particularly over issues like immigration. Nonetheless, Trump and his wife, Melania, were among world leaders present at the late pope’s funeral Mass held over the weekend — a solemn event that drew dignitaries and religious leaders from across the globe.

The Catholic Church is set to begin the official selection process on May 7, when 135 cardinals will enter a private conclave at the Vatican to elect the new pope. Until then, speculation continues to swirl around who will step into one of the most influential spiritual roles in the world.