LITTLE ROCK (KATV) — President Donald Trump is facing backlash after posting, then deleting, an artificial intelligence-generated image that appeared to depict him in a Jesus-like role, prompting strong reactions from some Christian Arkansans.
The image showed Trump placing a hand on a hospitalized man while holding a glowing light, evoking imagery associated with Jesus Christ. Trump later told reporters he believed the image portrayed him as a doctor and said he had reposted it after seeing it online.
The post quickly drew criticism from some religious leaders and community members, who described it as disrespectful and part of a broader pattern of political figures invoking religious symbolism.
Mark West, a former Southern Baptist pastor of 15 years who lives in Batesville, said he was troubled by the image and what it represents.
“I was really just, I’m sick, that would be the word,” West said. “Another opportunity where I see my faith kind of dragged into this.”
West said the controversy reflects what he sees as an ongoing blending of Christianity with political identity, raising concerns about how religious imagery is used in public life.
“The politics are always going to be there, but our goal is the kingdom, and the kingdom is not politics,” West said. “The kingdom is not political. You know, Jesus said, ‘My kingdom is not of this world.’ So we’ve got to stop trying to make it of this world.”
Others echoed concerns about the intent behind the post and Trump’s explanation.
Angie Ware, a concerned Arkansan, questioned the president’s response and accountability.
“I think that what he did was purposeful, and I think that coming back and trying to claim that he meant to portray himself as a doctor, it goes to his credibility,” Ware said. “And I think it’s a refusal to take personal responsibility for his choices. And frankly, it comes across as cowardly.”
Ware added that the image fits what she sees as a troubling pattern.
This is not the first time he’s alluded to being Christ-like in a way that is not necessarily. I’ve attended church, and I’m emulating the teachings of Jesus. So, I’m very concerned, because I feel like instances like this are escalating.
Reaction to the post has been mixed, with some supporters defending the president while others like West and Ware criticize the use of religious imagery.
