By Sabiu Abdullahi
United States President Donald Trump has removed a controversial social media post that portrayed him in a Christ-like image after facing strong criticism from supporters, including members of his religious base.
The post, which appeared late Sunday on his Truth Social platform, featured an AI-generated image of the 79-year-old president depicted as a messianic figure. In the image, Trump was seen laying a hand on a patient in a hospital bed in a gesture of divine healing, flanked by a nurse, a soldier, and a praying woman.
The scene also included prominent American symbols such as the national flag, the Statue of Liberty, the Lincoln Memorial, and several bald eagles.
The post came shortly after Trump launched a sharp online attack against Pope Leo XIV, whom he described as a “weak” leader serving the “Radical Left.”
Reactions from his followers were swift and critical. Many described the image as inappropriate and offensive to Christian beliefs. Some supporters expressed disappointment over what they viewed as a misuse of religious symbolism.
A supporter, Leroy Brookens, said, “I am a solid Trump supporter and fan, but Trump is not Christ and this art is blasphemous.”
Another follower, identified as Kiwi Ellis, wrote, “God values humility and this is the opposite of that. The blasphemy is real.”
Several users also referenced biblical teachings in their criticism. Some went as far as accusing the president of presenting himself as a false religious figure.
One user, Jhelton50, asked, “The book of Revelations speaks of this, are you literally depicting yourself as a savior or messiah? The Book of Revelation tells us the Antichrist will claim he is.”
Others reacted more strongly. A user named Philosophical posted, “Disgusting. Sad… we elected the Antichrist,” while another account, For God and Country, wrote, “FALSE GOD. BLASPHEMY!! ANTI CHRIST.”
The controversy also drew comments from prominent conservative figures. Right-wing influencer Riley Gaines questioned the motive behind the post.
“Why? Seriously, I cannot understand why he’d post this. Is he looking for a response? A little humility would serve him well; God shall not be mocked,” Gaines wrote.
MAGA podcaster Michael Knowles also urged caution, stating, “It behooves the President both spiritually and politically to delete the picture, no matter the intent.”
Beyond religious concerns, the backlash included expressions of regret from some former supporters and calls for political action.
A user, Joe_88, said, “I’m officially 100% done with you at this point; mocking our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ is beyond ridiculous. I cannot believe I voted for you three times!”
Another commenter, whatfreshhelltoday, added, “I deeply regret voting for you! Your ego won’t let you see it, or are you truly a sociopath? 25th Amendment!!!”
By Monday morning, the post had been taken down from Trump’s account without any formal statement.
Although the image has been removed, the episode has raised fresh concerns about Trump’s relationship with sections of his religious supporters.