Overview
- President Trump quipped that he would like to be the next pope, calling it his 'number one choice,' while speaking to reporters before a Michigan rally.
- Trump clarified he has no firm preference but mentioned Cardinal Timothy Dolan of New York as a 'very good' potential candidate for the papacy.
- The Vatican has confirmed that the conclave to select Pope Francis' successor will begin on May 7, with 135 cardinal electors under 80 participating.
- Trump and First Lady Melania attended Pope Francis' funeral on April 26 in Vatican City, alongside global leaders and dignitaries.
- Cardinal Dolan, one of ten American cardinals eligible to vote in the conclave, is considered unlikely to be chosen due to perceptions of being 'too American.'