Outcry As Trump Jesus-Like Image Trends
United States President Donald Trump has denied claims that he shared an AI-generated image portraying himself as Jesus Christ, following widespread criticism over a controversial image that circulated online.
The Genius Media Nigeria reports that the image, which was reportedly posted on Trump’s Truth Social platform before being deleted, sparked backlash from several quarters after it appeared to depict the former president in imagery resembling Christian religious symbolism.
Speaking to reporters at the White House on Monday, Trump rejected the interpretation of the image, insisting it had been misrepresented.
“Well, it wasn’t a picture… I thought it was me as a doctor, and it had to do with Red Cross as a Red Cross worker there, which we support, and only the fake news could come up with that one,” Trump said.
According to Trump, the image was intended to represent healing rather than religious imagery.
“It’s supposed to be me as a doctor making people better, and I do make people better. I make people a lot better,” he added.
The image that circulated online showed Trump wearing flowing robes, surrounded by radiant light with his hands stretched outward in a pose that some viewers interpreted as a healing gesture commonly associated with depictions of Jesus Christ.
The visual also included figures resembling angels or armed personnel floating in the air, alongside fighter jets and fireworks, blending religious symbolism with elements of American nationalism.
Following the circulation of the image, critics described it as inappropriate and offensive, particularly because of its resemblance to imagery traditionally associated with Jesus Christ.
Some commentators argued that the visual crossed religious boundaries, while others accused the former president of encouraging imagery that elevated his political persona to a symbolic or messianic level.
The controversy also comes amid growing tensions between Trump and Pope Leo XIV.
Trump recently criticised the pope over his stance on several global issues.
He described the pontiff as “weak on crime” and “terrible for foreign policy,” accusing him of unfairly targeting his administration.
Trump also argued that the pope failed to adequately criticise restrictions placed on religious gatherings during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Trump insists criticism based on misinterpretation
Despite the backlash, Trump maintained that the controversy surrounding the image stemmed from misinterpretation.
He reiterated that the image had no religious intent, insisting it was meant to symbolise healing and humanitarian service rather than a portrayal of himself as a religious figure.
