Donald Trump has denied allegations of blasphemy following controversy over an AI-generated image that appeared to depict him as Jesus Christ.
The image, which circulated widely on social media after being shared on Truth Social, showed Trump in flowing robes, surrounded by radiant light, with his hands outstretched in a pose many interpreted as resembling traditional depictions of Jesus. The visual also included elements such as figures appearing like angels or armed personnel, alongside fighter jets and fireworks, blending religious symbolism with patriotic imagery.
The post sparked widespread criticism, with some observers describing it as offensive and inappropriate, particularly due to its perceived use of sacred Christian imagery.
Speaking to reporters at the White House on Monday, Trump dismissed the backlash, insisting the image had been misinterpreted. He claimed the depiction was intended to present him as a medical figure rather than a religious one.
“It wasn’t a picture of that. I saw it as me as a doctor, like a Red Cross worker helping people,” he said, adding that the concept was meant to symbolize healing and support rather than any form of religious statement.
Trump further argued that critics were distorting the narrative, blaming what he described as “fake news” for amplifying the controversy.
The development comes amid heightened tensions between Trump and Pope Leo XIV, following the former president’s recent criticism of the pontiff’s positions on global issues. Trump had accused the pope of being weak on crime and ineffective in foreign policy, claims that have further fueled public debate.
Despite the backlash, Trump maintained that the AI-generated image carried no religious intent and was purely symbolic, reiterating that it was meant to reflect themes of healing and assistance rather than provoke religious sensitivities.
