Fact Check: Did Trump call Caitlin Clark and other public figures 'offenders of Jesus'?
WASHINGTON, DC: A rumor has been circulating on social media platforms claiming that President Donald Trump called a series of notable people, including Caitlin Clark and others such as celebrities, royals, and religious figures, ‘offenders of Jesus,’ sparking criticism and speculation.
Let us analyse the origins of the rumour and fact-check its authenticity.
Claim: Trump called Caitlin Clark 'offender of Jesus'
According to the rumor that began circulating online in April and May, Trump called a series of notable people, including celebrities, royals, and religious figures, ‘offenders of Jesus.’
A Facebook post claimed WNBA star Caitlin Clark had delivered a "scathing" lesson to Trump in response to him branding her an "offender of Jesus.”
The same claim circulated on the platform with near-identical text but featuring other public figures, such as David Attenborough, Warren Buffett, Rowan Atkinson, Taylor Swift, Prince William, and others.
The rumor has triggered criticism against the president, while some remained sceptical, questioning the authenticity of the claim.
Fact Check: Trump did make any such remark
However, the claim is false, as there is no evidence that the president made such a statement against anyone.
A Google search for the claim yielded no evidence from credible sources of Trump calling anyone an ‘offender of Jesus,’ which, if true, would have been widely covered by prominent news or entertainment media outlets.
A search for ‘offenders of Jesus' showed no results except for the social media posts making the claim.
Each of these posts originated from Facebook and blog pages that use artificial intelligence tools to create inspiring or shocking stories about public figures. Hence, the claim is rated false.
Trump faces backlash over AI Jesus image
The claim likely spread in response to the widespread criticism Trump faced after sharing an AI-generated image appearing to depict himself in the likeness of Jesus Christ.
The post, shared on Truth Social on Sunday, April 12, drew backlash from political allies, conservative commentators, and religious figures, prompting debate over its appropriateness.
The image, which shows Trump in a white robe with a red sash and a glowing orb in one hand, resembles traditional depictions of Jesus Christ and was later deleted following the backlash.
The post came amid heightened political tensions, including Trump’s recent criticism of Pope Leo over the Iran conflict.
