Trump deletes post depicting him as Jesus-like figure after backlash
Trump Removes Post Showing Him as Jesus-like Figure Amid Criticism
US President Donald Trump deleted a contentious post on Truth Social that portrayed him as a Christ-like figure, following mounting criticism. The AI-generated image depicted Trump in a white robe, using a radiant hand to heal a hospitalized individual, sparking reactions from across the political divide. Even some of his staunchest allies voiced concerns over the portrayal. The post emerged shortly after Trump criticized Pope Leo XIV, a leader who has openly opposed US and Israeli actions in Iran.
Context of the Image and Trump’s Defense
Hours after the image was shared, Trump addressed the controversy, claiming it showed him as a “doctor” assisting a Red Cross worker. “It’s supposed to be as a doctor making people better,” he stated, adding that his policies “make people a lot better.” The visual included the Statue of Liberty, a waving American flag, fighter jets, and a nurse alongside a woman in prayer. Despite the religious imagery, Trump insisted the depiction was meant to highlight his role in aiding others.
“There’s no context where this is acceptable,” Sean Feucht, a Christian activist, wrote, condemning the post as inappropriate.
“God shall not be mocked,” asserted Riley Gaines, a conservative commentator, while David Brody of the Christian Broadcasting Network called the image “too far” and “crossing the line.”
Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope, had previously criticized the Iran war, calling it “absurd and inhuman violence.” He expressed no fear of the Trump administration, stating he was committed to “speaking out loudly” about the Gospel. Trump, however, did not apologize, arguing that the pope had “wrongly” criticized his policies. “You cannot have a nuclear Iran,” he emphasized, suggesting the pope would “not be happy” with the outcome.
This incident marks another instance of scrutiny on Truth Social. In February, a similar post showed Barack and Michelle Obama as apes, which was later removed. The White House initially defended it as an “internet meme video,” urging critics to “stop the fake outrage.” After backlash from Republican senators, the post was deleted, with an official noting a staffer had “erroneously” shared it.
