Trump quietly deletes AI Jesus image after 'blasphemy' storm from his own side

WASHINGTON, DC: President Donald Trump is facing widespread criticism after sharing an AI-generated image appearing to depict himself in the likeness of Lord Jesus Christ.

The post, shared on Truth Social on Sunday, April 12, drew backlash from political allies, conservative commentators, and religious figures.

The image quickly circulated online, prompting debate over its appropriateness. 

Conservatives criticize Trump's post as inappropriate and offensive

The image, which shows Trump in a white robe with a red sash and a glowing orb in one hand, resembles traditional depictions of Lord Jesus Christ. It was a modified version of an earlier post by a right-wing influencer and was later shared by Trump.

The response was immediate, including criticism from some of Trump’s own supporters. Conservative activist Riley Gaines wrote, “Why? Seriously, I cannot understand why he'd post this,” adding, “Is he looking for a response? Does he actually think this? Either way, two things are true. 1) A little humility would serve him well. 2) God shall not be mocked.”

Other conservative voices also criticized the post.

“Blasphemy from the Oval Office is not a funny troll,” commentator Cam Higby said.

Author and podcaster Michael Knowles wrote, “I assume someone has already told him, but it behooves the president both spiritually and politically to delete the picture, no matter the intent.”

Republican Congressman Don Bacon described the post as “a gaudy and juvenile post,” adding, “I know he's trying to be funny, but it was a foolish post.” 

Former White House Press Secretary Ari Fleischer called it “inappropriate and embarrassing. It's offensive.”

The criticism extended to religious commentators, including Allie Beth Stuckey, who said, “That image is what happens when Paula White is your personal pastor and people around you are continually comparing you to Christ.” 

She added that Trump “desperately needs to understand the bad news that precedes the Good News.”

Political reactions intensify amid Iran tensions

The controversy comes amid heightened political tensions, including Trump’s recent criticism of Pope Leo over the Iran conflict.

The Pope, responding separately, said, “I will not shy away from announcing the message of the Gospel,” emphasizing peace and reconciliation.

Some political figures linked the image to broader concerns about Trump’s rhetoric.

Former Republican Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene wrote, “On Orthodox Easter, President Trump attacked the Pope because the Pope is rightly against Trump's war in Iran and then he posted this picture of himself as if he is replacing Jesus.”

She added, “This comes after last week's post of his evil tirade on Easter and then threatening to kill an entire civilization. I completely denounce this and I'm praying against it!!!”

Conservative podcaster Erick Erickson pointed to a shift among some supporters, writing that “Christian Trump supporters who have stood with him through Iran... are waking up to his blasphemy.”

The original image had been shared months earlier by influencer Nick Adams, who wrote at the time, “America has been sick for a long time."

"President Trump is healing this nation,” Adams added. 

President Trump appointed Adams in March as special presidential envoy for American tourism, exceptionalism and values.

The POTUS deleted the post on Monday following the MAGA backlash, and after that, California Governor Gavin Newsom said, “Now delete your presidency.”