Trump Seeks Influence in Papal Succession, Pushes for U.S. Cardinal Amid Vatican Conclave

The Vatican, Rome - As the Catholic Church prepares to elect a successor to Pope Francis, former U.S. President Donald Trump has emerged as an unlikely figure in the behind-the-scenes maneuvering, advocating for a conservative American cardinal and reportedly submitting a list of pre-vetted candidates to Vatican officials. Trump’s efforts, though constitutionally non-binding, underscore his administration’s renewed focus on shaping global religious leadership to align with his political agenda.

Central to Trump’s campaign is Cardinal Raymond Burke, 76, a staunch traditionalist from Wisconsin who has repeatedly clashed with Pope Francis over doctrinal issues. Burke, who was removed from key Vatican roles by Francis, has criticized the pope’s openness to LGBTQ+ individuals and migrants, positions that resonate with Trump’s base. Burke currently ranks as a longshot candidate among bookmakers but has gained visibility due to Trump’s endorsement.

Sources indicate the Trump administration has communicated privately with Vatican officials, advocating for candidates who prioritize conservative social values and a more insular Church identity. This push coincides with Trump’s nomination of Brian Burch—a vocal critic of Francis—as U.S. ambassador to the Holy See. Burch, whose confirmation is pending, has accused Francis of fostering “massive confusion” and could amplify pressure on the conclave.

Historically, no American has served as pope, and analysts note significant resistance within the College of Cardinals to electing a pontiff from a global superpower. The Vatican’s diplomatic corps has traditionally avoided such appointments to maintain the Church’s perceived neutrality.

The election will determine whether the Church continues Francis’s emphasis on social justice or reverts to doctrinal conservatism. Trump’s overtures, while unprecedented, face skepticism from cardinals wary of external political interference. As Ulrich Lehner, a theology professor at Notre Dame, noted, Francis’s unilateral governance style left many cardinals fragmented, complicating alliances.

While Trump’s bid to influence the papal election reflects his broader pattern of aligning with conservative religious leaders, the centuries-old conclave process remains insulated from direct political pressure. The outcome will hinge on internal Church dynamics, with the new pope inheriting a deeply divided institution at a crossroads.