Trump's Feud with Pope Leo XIV and AI Jesus Image Controversy
President Trump is engaged in an escalating feud with Pope Leo XIV, primarily over the pontiff's criticism of the Iran war. The controversy deepened after Trump posted an AI-generated image depicting himself as Jesus, drawing widespread backlash and comments from political figures and religious leaders.
Latest Developments
Johnson says he asked Trump to take down AI Jesus image
House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) stated on Tuesday that he asked President Trump to remove an AI image depicting the President as Jesus Christ. Johnson conveyed his concerns to President Trump immediately after seeing the image, noting it was not being well-received. This interaction highlights a rare public instance of a high-ranking Republican leader advising the President on his public imagery. The request suggests an effort to manage the President's public perception, particularly concerning religious iconography.
Trump summons FISA holdouts to the White House - Politico
President Trump has summoned lawmakers identified as "FISA holdouts" to the White House. This meeting aims to address their concerns regarding the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA), a key national security tool that has faced bipartisan criticism over its Section 702 authority. The administration is seeking to reauthorize or reform FISA, which allows for surveillance of non-U.S. persons located outside the United States. The holdouts' resistance could impede efforts to renew the controversial surveillance program before its expiration. This high-level intervention underscores the White House's push to secure legislative support for FISA's future.
Postal Service union rolls out ‘American needs Vote by Mail’ ad campaign amid Trump attacks
The American Postal Workers Union (APWU) has launched an advertisement campaign titled "America Needs Vote by Mail" to advocate for mail-in voting. This initiative comes as President Trump has recently criticized the practice of mail-in voting. The ad features diverse individuals, including a flight attendant, college student, and farmer, explaining their reasons for utilizing vote by mail. This campaign directly counters the President's stance on mail-in voting, highlighting the union's support for the method. The APWU's effort underscores the ongoing national debate surrounding voting access and election procedures.
Women snatch MAGA's megaphone
Conservative women are gaining influence within the fracturing MAGA media ecosystem, stepping into a vacuum created by male figures who have become critical of President Trump. Candace Owens' podcast has been the fastest-growing right-wing podcast for the past two quarters, while Megyn Kelly's podcast entered the top 20 shows in the U.S. last year, per Edison Research. This shift allows conservative women to expand the movement's reach to new voters, particularly as the Democratic edge among women has narrowed. Owens and Kelly have surged in popularity by taking oppositional stances against President Trump regarding the war with Iran and the Jeffrey Epstein scandal. Other women, like Katie Miller, are focusing on culture and lifestyle to attract conservative women, with Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. also credited for attracting women to MAGA politics.
Johnson says he told Trump to take down image of president-as-Jesus - Politico
Speaker Mike Johnson stated that he advised President Donald Trump to remove an image depicting the president as Jesus. This interaction suggests Johnson, a prominent Republican leader, directly intervened regarding a potentially controversial portrayal of the sitting President. The advice highlights sensitivities around religious imagery used in political contexts, particularly concerning a figure like President Trump. Johnson's counsel indicates an effort to manage the President's public image or messaging.
Key Facts
President Trump is in an ongoing feud with Pope Leo XIV, largely stemming from the Pope's stance on the Iran war.
Source: CBS News, The Hill, AFP / France 24
Trump posted an AI-generated image depicting himself as a Jesus-like figure, which he later deleted, sparking bipartisan backlash.
Source: CBS News, AFP / France 24
Pope Leo XIV stated he is 'not afraid' to speak out, signaling continued tension with Trump.
Source: CBS News
Vice President JD Vance defended Trump amid the spat, suggesting the Vatican should 'stick to matters of morality'.
Source: The Guardian US News, The Hill
House Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi called Trump's outburst and 'Jesus post' 'worthy of a diagnosis'.
Source: The Hill
Recent Highlights
Trump deletes the controversial AI image after widespread criticism.
President Trump posts an AI-generated image depicting himself as Jesus, drawing immediate backlash.
Pope Leo XIV states he is 'not afraid' to speak out against Trump's actions.
Trump lashes out at Pope Leo XIV, escalating their feud over the Iran war.
Vice President JD Vance defends Trump and criticizes the Pope, further fueling the controversy.
Full Coverage (26 articles)
Showing 20 of 26 articles
Johnson says he asked Trump to take down AI Jesus image
House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) stated on Tuesday that he asked President Trump to remove an AI image depicting the President as Jesus Christ. Johnson conveyed his concerns to President Trump immediately after seeing the image, noting it was not being well-received. This interaction highlights a rare public instance of a high-ranking Republican leader advising the President on his public imagery. The request suggests an effort to manage the President's public perception, particularly concerning religious iconography.
Trump summons FISA holdouts to the White House - Politico
President Trump has summoned lawmakers identified as "FISA holdouts" to the White House. This meeting aims to address their concerns regarding the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA), a key national security tool that has faced bipartisan criticism over its Section 702 authority. The administration is seeking to reauthorize or reform FISA, which allows for surveillance of non-U.S. persons located outside the United States. The holdouts' resistance could impede efforts to renew the controversial surveillance program before its expiration. This high-level intervention underscores the White House's push to secure legislative support for FISA's future.
Postal Service union rolls out ‘American needs Vote by Mail’ ad campaign amid Trump attacks
The American Postal Workers Union (APWU) has launched an advertisement campaign titled "America Needs Vote by Mail" to advocate for mail-in voting. This initiative comes as President Trump has recently criticized the practice of mail-in voting. The ad features diverse individuals, including a flight attendant, college student, and farmer, explaining their reasons for utilizing vote by mail. This campaign directly counters the President's stance on mail-in voting, highlighting the union's support for the method. The APWU's effort underscores the ongoing national debate surrounding voting access and election procedures.
Women snatch MAGA's megaphone
Conservative women are gaining influence within the fracturing MAGA media ecosystem, stepping into a vacuum created by male figures who have become critical of President Trump. Candace Owens' podcast has been the fastest-growing right-wing podcast for the past two quarters, while Megyn Kelly's podcast entered the top 20 shows in the U.S. last year, per Edison Research. This shift allows conservative women to expand the movement's reach to new voters, particularly as the Democratic edge among women has narrowed. Owens and Kelly have surged in popularity by taking oppositional stances against President Trump regarding the war with Iran and the Jeffrey Epstein scandal. Other women, like Katie Miller, are focusing on culture and lifestyle to attract conservative women, with Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. also credited for attracting women to MAGA politics.
Johnson says he told Trump to take down image of president-as-Jesus - Politico
Speaker Mike Johnson stated that he advised President Donald Trump to remove an image depicting the president as Jesus. This interaction suggests Johnson, a prominent Republican leader, directly intervened regarding a potentially controversial portrayal of the sitting President. The advice highlights sensitivities around religious imagery used in political contexts, particularly concerning a figure like President Trump. Johnson's counsel indicates an effort to manage the President's public image or messaging.
Most Americans opposed to Trump signature on money: Poll
A recent Economist/YouGov poll indicates that most Americans oppose the Treasury Department's plan to add President Trump's signature to U.S. paper currency. Fifty-nine percent of respondents expressed disapproval of the move, which was announced last month. This public sentiment suggests significant resistance to a highly visible change in the nation's monetary symbols. The Treasury Department, part of the Trump administration, is responsible for the design and issuance of currency. This poll highlights a notable public reaction to the administration's decision regarding the appearance of U.S. money.
Exclusive: Trump’s son Eric to join father's state visit to China - Reuters
Eric Trump, son of President Donald Trump, will accompany his father on an upcoming state visit to China, according to a Reuters exclusive. This marks a notable inclusion of a presidential family member on a high-level diplomatic trip. The presence of Eric Trump, who has business interests, could raise questions about the blurring lines between presidential duties and family affairs. The visit itself is a significant diplomatic engagement between the United States and China.
Trump doubles down on feud with Pope Leo amid backlash over post depicting him as Jesus
President Trump reiterated his ongoing feud with Pope Leo XIV during an interview with CBS News' Norah O'Donnell, stating the pontiff is "wrong on the issues." This follows a social media backlash against a now-deleted AI image posted by Mr. Trump depicting him as Jesus Christ. The President defended the image to reporters, claiming he thought it made him look like a doctor. This public dispute between the sitting President and the head of the Catholic Church marks a significant point of contention. CBS News' Chris Livesay and Olivia Rinaldi are covering the story.
Pelosi says Trump’s pope outburst, Jesus post worthy ‘of a diagnosis’
House Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) stated that President Trump's recent outburst involving Pope Leo XIV and a "Jesus post" is "worthy of a diagnosis." Pelosi made the comments during an event at George Washington University on Monday, suggesting the incident was beyond a mere conversation. Her remarks came after President Trump's clash with Pope Leo XIV regarding the ongoing war in Iran, where Trump had accused the pontiff. This public criticism from a prominent Democratic figure highlights the contentious nature of the President's recent actions and rhetoric.
WATCH: President Trump and Pope Leo in disagreement over war in Iran
President Trump and Pope Leo are in disagreement over the war in Iran, with the conflict escalating after President Trump attacked the Pope on social media. President Trump posted a now-deleted AI-generated image depicting himself as a Jesus-like figure, further amplifying the disagreement. This public spat highlights a significant rift between the current US President and the head of the Catholic Church regarding the ongoing conflict. The White House has not yet commented on the deleted image or the broader implications of the President's social media activity concerning the Pope.
McDonald's, Iran and the pope: Trump's bizarre press conference
US President Donald Trump received a DoorDash delivery from McDonald's to the Oval Office during a press conference. During this event, President Trump also discussed topics including Iran and the pope. This unusual occurrence took place while the President was addressing the press. The specific details of his remarks on Iran and the pope were part of the broader, unconventional press conference.
JD Vance defends Trump amid spat with Pope Leo: ‘Stick to matters of morality’
Vice-President JD Vance defended President Donald Trump following criticism from Pope Leo regarding the Iran war. Vance stated that the Vatican should "stick to matters of morality" and allow the President of the United States to dictate American public policy. This intervention comes after Pope Leo criticized the White House's handling of the Iran war, sparking a feud with President Trump. Vance's comments, made during an interview on Fox News, effectively told the pontiff to "stay in his lane." The statement underscores a public disagreement between the Trump administration and the head of the Catholic Church over foreign policy.
Catholic Vance Breaks Silence on Trump's Jesus-Like Image Amid Outcry From Other Conservatives
Vice President J.D. Vance downplayed President Donald Trump’s posting and deleting of an AI-generated Jesus-like image, stating Trump intended it as a joke and removed it due to public misunderstanding. Vance also remarked on tensions between the Trump Administration and the Vatican, arguing the Vatican should "stick to matters of morality" and let the President dictate American public policy. This follows President Trump's public criticism of Pope Leo, whom he accused of being "weak on crime" and "terrible for foreign policy." Trump, who later claimed the image depicted him as a doctor, faced criticism from conservatives like Republican Rep. Warren Davidson and former Georgia Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, who called it blasphemous. This incident follows a similar instance last year where Trump posted an AI-generated image of himself as a Pope.
Pope Leo says he's "not afraid" to speak out as he clashes with Trump
Pope Leo stated he is "not afraid" to speak out, signaling continued tension with President Trump. The Pope and President Trump remain at odds over the Iran war, with Pope Leo emphasizing his commitment to "speaking out loudly about the message of the Gospel." This public declaration highlights the ongoing disagreement between the religious leader and the current President of the United States regarding a major international conflict. The Pope's comments suggest a firm stance against potential White House policies concerning Iran.
Pope makes first papal visit to Algeria
Pope Leo XIV began the first papal visit to Algeria on Monday. This historic trip aims to promote Christian-Muslim coexistence amid ongoing global conflicts. The Pope is also honoring St. Augustine, a locally born figure who inspired his religious spirituality. This marks a significant diplomatic and religious outreach effort by the Vatican in a predominantly Muslim nation.
How Pope Leo's call for peace differs from Trump's messaging on power
President Trump is engaged in a feud with Pope Leo XIV, as reported by CBS News' Chris Livesay. This conflict highlights differing approaches to messaging unity between the two leaders. The story examines how Pope Leo XIV's calls for peace contrast with President Trump's focus on power. This comparison offers insight into the distinct philosophies guiding both figures on global and societal cohesion.
Trump faces bipartisan backlash after posting image appearing to depict him like Jesus
President Trump is facing bipartisan backlash after posting an AI-generated image that appeared to depict him in the likeness of Jesus. The image, which he later deleted, drew criticism from both political parties. This incident highlights the ongoing scrutiny of the President's social media activity and its reception across the political spectrum. Weijia Jiang reported on the development.
Trump faces bipartisan backlash after posting image appearing to depict him like Jesus
President Trump is facing bipartisan backlash for posting an AI-generated image that appeared to depict him in the likeness of Jesus. The image was later deleted by the President, as reported by Weijia Jiang. This action has drawn criticism from both Republican and Democratic parties. The incident highlights the President's use of social media and AI-generated content, as well as the immediate political reactions such posts can provoke.
Pope says doesn't fear Trump as he pushes back in Iran war feud
Pope Leo XIV publicly responded to President Donald Trump's criticism regarding the US-Israel war in Iran, asserting that the Vatican's calls for peace are grounded in the Gospel and that he does not fear the Trump administration. This exchange highlights a diplomatic rift between the Vatican and the White House over the ongoing conflict in Iran. The Pope's statements indicate a firm stance against the Trump administration's foreign policy in the region. This public disagreement underscores the Vatican's commitment to its moral principles despite political pressure from a major global power.
Vance wades into Trump’s feud with Pope Leo
Vice President Vance downplayed concerns regarding President Trump’s ongoing feud with Pope Leo XIV. Vance suggested the dispute was not newsworthy, despite Trump having recently clashed with the leader of the Catholic Church over the war in Iran. President Trump called Pope Leo XIV "weak on crime" in a social media post on Sunday. This public disagreement highlights tensions between the White House and the Vatican. Vance's comments came as he promotes an upcoming project.