Trump's Feud with Pope Leo and Jesus Image Controversy
President Trump's social media post depicting himself as a Jesus-like figure, coupled with an escalating feud with Pope Leo XIV, has sparked widespread controversy. The image, later deleted, drew criticism from religious leaders and political figures alike, highlighting deep-rooted tensions between the Trump administration and the Vatican.
Latest Developments
DC bishop: AI image depicting Trump as Jesus ‘alarming’
Rt. Rev. Mariann Edgar Budde, the DC bishop, called an AI-generated image posted by President Trump depicting himself as Jesus Christ "alarming." Bishop Budde stated that this image is part of a pattern associating the President and his administration with the teachings of Jesus and the will of God. This public criticism from a prominent religious leader highlights concerns within faith communities regarding the use of religious imagery in political contexts. Her remarks underscore an ongoing tension between political figures and religious institutions over perceived claims of spiritual authority.
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.
Georgia Republican slams Trump’s AI Jesus post, Iran rhetoric
Rep. Austin Scott (R-Ga.) publicly criticized President Trump for two distinct actions: his rhetoric threatening to "wipe out Iranian civilization" and a recent social media post depicting himself as Jesus. Scott stated he wished to convey his disapproval privately but felt compelled to speak out publicly. This unusual public rebuke from a Republican Congressman highlights growing dissent within the party regarding President Trump's statements and online behavior. The criticism specifically references an "Easter Sunday post" and the President's aggressive stance toward Iran.
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.
Key Facts
President Trump deleted a social media image depicting himself as Jesus after an outcry from religious leaders.
Source: AFP / France 24
The post was described as 'gross blasphemy' by critics.
Source: USA Today
Vice President JD Vance stated that Pope Leo should not interfere in U.S. affairs.
Source: New York Times
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni called Trump’s rant against Pope Leo 'unacceptable'.
Source: The Hill
Trump confirmed he would not back down from his feud with Pope Leo, which originated from a '60 Minutes' report.
Source: CBS News
Recent Highlights
President Trump criticizes Pope Leo following a '60 Minutes' report, initiating a public feud.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni calls Trump's comments about Pope Leo 'unacceptable'.
Vice President Vance states Pope Leo should stay out of U.S. affairs, defending Trump.
Trump deletes the controversial image after widespread criticism from religious leaders and the public.
Trump posts an AI-generated image depicting himself as a Jesus-like figure on social media.
Full Coverage (55 articles)
Showing 20 of 55 articles
DC bishop: AI image depicting Trump as Jesus ‘alarming’
Rt. Rev. Mariann Edgar Budde, the DC bishop, called an AI-generated image posted by President Trump depicting himself as Jesus Christ "alarming." Bishop Budde stated that this image is part of a pattern associating the President and his administration with the teachings of Jesus and the will of God. This public criticism from a prominent religious leader highlights concerns within faith communities regarding the use of religious imagery in political contexts. Her remarks underscore an ongoing tension between political figures and religious institutions over perceived claims of spiritual authority.
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.
Georgia Republican slams Trump’s AI Jesus post, Iran rhetoric
Rep. Austin Scott (R-Ga.) publicly criticized President Trump for two distinct actions: his rhetoric threatening to "wipe out Iranian civilization" and a recent social media post depicting himself as Jesus. Scott stated he wished to convey his disapproval privately but felt compelled to speak out publicly. This unusual public rebuke from a Republican Congressman highlights growing dissent within the party regarding President Trump's statements and online behavior. The criticism specifically references an "Easter Sunday post" and the President's aggressive stance toward Iran.
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.
Eric Swalwell and Tony Gonzales resign from Congress amid sexual misconduct allegations
Democratic Congressman Eric Swalwell and Republican Tony Gonzales resigned from the House of Representatives on Tuesday following sexual misconduct allegations. Their departures came amid bipartisan pressure, with lawmakers threatening to introduce resolutions to expel both men. Swalwell resigned at 2 pm eastern time, with Gonzales's resignation to follow. This abrupt end to their political careers highlights the immediate consequences faced by members of Congress accused of sexual misconduct.
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.
Eric Swalwell and Tony Gonzales officially resign from Congress, avoiding expected expulsion votes - CBS News
Eric Swalwell and Tony Gonzales have officially resigned from Congress, preempting anticipated expulsion votes. Their resignations mean the House of Representatives will not proceed with formal proceedings to remove them from their seats. This action avoids a potentially contentious and politically charged process for both the departing members and the legislative body. The resignations will necessitate special elections to fill their vacant congressional districts.
Eric Swalwell, Tony Gonzales and Congress' ethics earthquake - USA Today
The USA Today headline reports on an "ethics earthquake" involving Eric Swalwell and Tony Gonzales in Congress. This suggests significant ethical concerns or controversies have arisen around these two individuals within the legislative body. The situation likely points to increased scrutiny or potential investigations into the conduct of members of Congress, impacting their public standing and the institution's reputation. Such developments can lead to calls for reform or changes in congressional ethics rules.
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.
Hegseth-linked pastor knocks Trump over AI Jesus image: ‘He has to do better’
A pastor linked to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth criticized President Trump regarding an artificial intelligence (AI) image that appeared to depict the president as Jesus Christ. President Trump had stated the image showed him as a doctor healing people. The pastor expressed relief that Trump deleted the image and rejected the portrayal. This incident highlights religious sensitivities surrounding the use of AI imagery involving political figures.
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.
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.
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.