Donald Trump's AI-generated image portraying him as the Pope, released on his social media and subsequently shared by the White House, is analyzed as a strategic move rather than a simple parody. The act is viewed as a challenge to the 133 cardinals who will be electing the successor to Pope Francis.
The article highlights Trump's approach to politics as highly iconographic, aiming to capture attention above all else. His actions are interpreted through a five-point credo emphasizing attention grabbing, saturation, public space inundation, mockery, and the rejection of universality.
The image presents a dilemma for the conclave: whether to align with the influence of the United States or maintain independence. The article references historical context, noting the Catholic Church's long history of controlling images and ideas. The modern tension is compared to past conflicts, emphasizing the shift in global power dynamics.
The article points out the significant involvement of the United States in the conclave, with the new US leadership seeking to influence the direction of the Catholic Church. Conservative US publications are actively monitoring the proceedings, suggesting a concerted effort to shape the outcome.
Trump's action is interpreted as conveying a message: obedience or the risk of reduced financial support, tension, and mockery. The article concludes by discussing the emerging dilemma within the conclave – choosing between aligning with the powerful US influence or maintaining independence – highlighting the broader shift in the global landscape.