Trump bows to pressure, takes down viral ‘Jesus’ post

U.S. President Donald Trump has taken down a controversial image he shared on the social media platform Truth Social after it sparked outrage among religious leaders and members of the public.

The image, which quickly drew criticism online, portrayed Trump dressed in flowing red and white robes, resembling depictions of Jesus Christ.

In the post, he appeared to be touching the forehead of a man who looked ill, with rays of light shining from his hand and head, suggesting a healing scene.

An American flag was visible in the background, while several figures surrounded him, looking on in admiration and reverence.

Religious leaders condemned the image, describing it as inappropriate and offensive to Christian beliefs. Critics argued that presenting a political figure in such a sacred role crossed a line and amounted to blasphemy.

The AI picture was posted late Sunday and removed Monday.

Asked about the post, Trump denied that he was trying to look like Jesus Christ.

“I did post it, and I thought it was me as a doctor and had to do Red Cross,” he told journalists. “It’s supposed to be me as a doctor, making people better. And I do make people better. I make people a lot better.”

The post generated an outcry from several prominent conservative Christians who are among Trump’s biggest backers.

“I don’t know if the President thought he was being funny or if he is under the influence of some substance or what possible explanation he could have for this OUTRAGEOUS blasphemy,” Megan Basham, a conservative journalist and commentator wrote on X.

“He needs to take this down immediately and ask for forgiveness from the American people and then from God.”

Trump has previously used religious images in his posts. During his 2023 bank fraud trial, he shared a sketch from a supporter that showed him sitting next to Jesus in the courtroom.

His advisors have repeatedly cast him in a Jesus-like role.

During an Easter lunch event at the White House earlier this month, Paula White-Cain, a televangelist who has served as his spiritual advisor, likened Trump to Jesus.

“You were betrayed and arrested and falsely accused. It’s a familiar pattern that our Lord and Savior showed us.”

Join Very Nigerian WhatsApp Channel
For Verified Breaking News, Exclusive Reports, Trending Stories, And Real-time Updates.
CLICk HERE TO JOIN!