Trump sparks religious controversies

President Trump’s posting of an image depicting himself as a Jesus-like figure, along with a feud with the Pope, has sparked a backlash and risks alienating supporters in November’s U.S. midterm elections

Apr 13, 2026: Trump deletes AI-generated image showing himself appearing to heal sick man in hospital bed, hours after launching verbal attack on Pope Leo XIV on Truth Social, calling him “weak on crime” and “terrible for foreign policy”

Apr 5, 2026: Trump describes rescue of U.S. airman in Iran as “Easter miracle”, framing conflict in religious terms. In separate post, warns Iran to open Strait of Hormuz or else – signing off: “Praise be to Allah”

Jan 20, 2025: At inauguration, Trump says God enabled him to survive assassination attempt during 2024 campaign – “I was saved by God to make America great again”

Jan 21, 2025: Bishop of Washington Mariann Budde (right) urges compassion for migrants and minorities – Trump calls her “so-called Bishop” and demands an apology

May 4, 2025: Shares AI-generated image of himself in papal attire (far right) as Catholics mourn death of Pope Francis

CHRISTIAN SUPPORT OF TRUMP
Percent who voted for Trump or Harris in 2024 presidential election, by religious affiliation*

Protestant / Other Christian
Catholic

*Edison Exit Polls 2024
Trump
Harris
72%
26%
63%
35%

Sources: Reuters, AP
Pictures: TruthSocial.com/@realDonaldTrump, X/White House, Getty Images
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