Donald Trump is once again causing discussion, this time with an image generated with artificial intelligence that portrays him embracing Jesus. The post, published on Truth Social, comes a few days after another controversial post – later deleted – in which the American president was accused of having implicitly compared himself to the figure of Christ.
The post and the polemical content against the left
In the shared content, Trump is seen with his eyes closed, forehead to forehead with Jesus, in an almost mystical pose. In the background, an American flag and a microphone, elements that blend religious and political symbols. The image was accompanied by a polemical comment: “The radical left might not like it, but I think it’s very beautiful.”
The original post, shared by the US president, instead contains an even more explicit message, in which Trump evoked a sort of divine mission in the fight against alleged “satanic and demonic monsters”, suggesting that God could “play his Trump card”. Words that immediately raised criticism, especially for the comparison between his political figure and his religious one.
The clash with Catholics could weigh on consensus
The use of religious symbols is not new in the communication of Donald Trump, who over the years has built a significant part of his consensus among Christian voters. Despite a not particularly assiduous religious practice, Trump won widespread support among both evangelicals and Catholics in the 2024 elections.
The use of images and spiritual references, however, marks a further step forward in the president’s communication strategy, pushing onto increasingly sensitive terrain. An operation which for its supporters strengthens the identity bond, but which for critics represents an exploitation of religion for political purposes.
The story then fits into the broader context of conflict between Trump and Pope Leo, the first US pontiff and critical voice of the American line in the Middle Eastern conflict that broke out after the US-Israel attacks in Iran which could also cost the tycoon the support of a good part of his Catholic electorate.