Overview

• The papal conclave to elect a successor to Pope Francis will begin on May 7, with 133 cardinal electors participating under strict isolation rules in Vatican City.
• Cardinal Pietro Parolin is widely regarded as a leading candidate, with many observers predicting a decision by the fifth ballot around May 9.
• Internal tensions among the cardinals have surfaced, including disputes over minibar charges and a cardinal reportedly altering his birthdate to remain eligible to vote.
• US President Donald Trump posted an AI-generated image of himself in papal attire, which was also shared by the White House's official social media account.
• The image has been condemned by Catholic organizations, including the New York State Catholic Conference, as disrespectful and insensitive following Pope Francis's recent funeral.