Former President Donald Trump recently stirred significant backlash after posting and subsequently deleting an AI-generated image of himself depicted as Jesus Christ healing the sick on his social media platform, Truth Social. During a conversation with reporters, Trump confirmed that he was responsible for the post.
The image provoked a wave of criticism across social media, with users labeling Trump a blasphemer and accusing him of disrespecting religious symbols. Prominent media figures, including some who have previously supported him, voiced their disapproval. Television host Riley Gaines suggested that Trump could benefit from a dose of humility, while journalist Megan Basham described the post as “outrageous blasphemy” and urged him to apologize to both Americans and God. Isabel Brown, another media personality, called the image “disgusting and unacceptable.”
In his remarks, Trump clarified that he did not see himself as Jesus in the image but rather as a figure akin to a Red Cross worker. He stated,
“Yes, I posted it, and I thought it was me in the role of a doctor. It was related to the Red Cross—I was depicted as a Red Cross employee.”
Trump also criticized the media for allegedly distorting the intent of his post and spreading what he termed “fake news.” This incident comes amid his ongoing criticism of Pope Francis XIV, who has publicly opposed the war in Iran and called for peaceful negotiations. Trump dismissed the Pope’s stance, labeling him as “very weak on crime and other issues” and refused to apologize for his comments.
Pope Francis XIV responded to Trump’s remarks by reaffirming his commitment to advocating against the war in the Middle East, stating that he does not wish to engage in a debate with the former president.
Donald Trump's recent AI-generated image depicting him as Jesus Christ has ignited widespread criticism, including from former supporters. The controversy unfolds alongside his ongoing disputes with Pope Francis XIV regarding the war in Iran.