Trump’s now-deleted AI portrayal as Jesus draws ‘blasphemy’ charge from Christian conservatives

President Donald Trump ignited a firestorm within his most loyal constituency this weekend after sharing an AI-generated image depicting himself as a Christ-like figure. The post, which appeared on Truth Social amid an escalating feud with Pope Leo, was deleted on Monday following a wave of condemnation from conservative Christian leaders who labelled the image "outrageous blasphemy."

The controversial image showed Trump in flowing red and white robes, surrounded by light, with his hand placed on the head of a sick man in a gesture of divine healing. The background featured a blend of American flags, fighter jets, and the Statue of Liberty.

‘God shall not be mocked’

The backlash was quick and notably came from within the President’s inner circle. Meg Basham, a prominent evangelical writer and longtime Trump supporter, did not mince words on X.

More from World

"I don’t know if the President thought he was being funny... but what possible explanation could he have for this OUTRAGEOUS blasphemy? He needs to ask for forgiveness from the American people and then from God," he wrote.

Other staunch allies joined the fray. Conservative activist Sean Feucht stated there is "no context where this is acceptable," while Riley Gaines, a frequent speaker at Trump rallies, urged the President to find "a little humility," adding that "God shall not be mocked."

Implications for the 'faith base'

For nearly a decade, Trump has maintained a symbiotic relationship with the religious right, often cast as a "Cyrus" figure—an imperfect vessel used for divine purposes. However, critics argue this post crossed a line from political utility into religious desecration.

The timing is particularly volatile. Trump is currently engaged in a bitter war of words with Pope Leo, who has criticised the US administration's foreign policy. By using sacred imagery to bolster his personal brand during this feud, Trump risks alienating the very voters who secured his 2024 victory.

The 'doctor' defence

Addressing reporters on Monday, Trump attempted to downplay the religious intent of the post, offering a characteristic explanation for the AI-generated robe and glowing aura.

"I thought it was an image of me as a doctor," Trump claimed. "It’s supposed to be me as a doctor, making people better. And I do make people better. I make people a lot better."

Despite the deletion, the incident has left a fracture. Many Christian conservatives are now grappling with the tension between supporting a president who delivers on their policy goals and one whose personal messaging they find spiritually offensive.