U.S. President Donald Trump shared an image depicting himself as Jesus on social media just days after launching a scathing attack on the Pope, drawing criticism for what opponents call hypocrisy in demanding religious leaders stay out of politics while appropriating religious symbolism for his own political narrative.
'Savior' Image Sparks Self-Deification Controversy
Trump posted the image on his Truth Social platform on Monday, portraying himself as a healer-like savior figure. The illustration featured U.S. soldiers, the American flag, and angels surrounding him.
Many observers argue the post was not simple humor or a meme but a deliberate attempt to cast himself as a divine figure.
The move comes amid controversy over a recent White House Easter event, where Paula White, Trump's special religious adviser, compared the president to Jesus, praising him as "a leader who was betrayed and suffered."
The remarks ignited heated online debate, with critics calling it "politicization of faith" and "exaggerated flattery rather than theology." Supporters defended the comparison as symbolizing "a leader who overcame persecution."
With Trump repeatedly linking himself to religious symbolism around Easter, some analysts suggest his "faith politics" has entered a new phase.
Trump Attacks Pope as 'Terrible,' Questions Election Legitimacy
Earlier, Trump launched a direct attack on Pope Leo XIV, calling him "weak on crime and terrible on foreign policy." The criticism came shortly before he shared the Christ-like imagery, fueling accusations of double standards.
In the same post, Trump claimed he does not want "a Pope who would allow Iran to have nuclear weapons" and said he "cannot understand" the Pope's criticism of attacks on Venezuela.
He went further, stating, "If I weren't in the White House, he wouldn't be in the Vatican," appearing to question the legitimacy of the Pope's election. Trump also urged the Pope to "stop pandering to the radical left and focus on religion."
Trump defended his record by claiming he "lowered crime rates and created the greatest stock market in history." However, critics argue that the juxtaposition of attacking the Pope while portraying himself in divine imagery undermines his message's credibility.
