Donald Trump Fires Back At Riley Gaines Over AI Jesus Image Criticism
Image: Washington Examiner

Donald Trump Fires Back At Riley Gaines Over AI Jesus Image Criticism

14 April, 2026.USA.31 sources

Key Takeaways

  • Trump posted AI-generated image of himself as Jesus on Truth Social, prompting Gaines's criticism.
  • Trump called Gaines not a fan; later deleted the post amid confusion.
  • Gaines publicly defended Trump amid the controversy.

Trump-Gaines Rift

Trump ignited a public feud with one of his most prominent supporters after she criticized an AI-generated image he posted.

President Donald Trump insulted one of his highest-profile supporters after she ripped him for the AI image that appeared to depict him as Jesus on his social media profile

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Gaines tweeted that a little humility would serve him well and God shall not be mocked.

Image from AL
ALAL

Trump responded, saying I didn't listen to Riley Gaines. I'm not a big fan of Riley, actually.

The image was deleted after less than 48 hours amid widespread backlash.

Gaines quickly backtracked, saying she loves the President and will continue to support him.

The Controversial Image

The AI-generated image showed Trump dressed in robes healing a sick man.

Trump insisted the image was meant to depict him as a doctor linked to humanitarian work.

Image from BBC
BBCBBC

The image sparked outrage from political opponents and conservative supporters alike.

The Guardian reported the image was shared shortly after Trump tore into Pope Leo XIV.

The incident illustrated how AI-generated imagery can yield diverse interpretations.

Gaines' Background

Riley Gaines is a 12-time NCAA All-American swimmer for the University of Kentucky.

She came out against transgender athletes after tying with Lia Thomas in 2022.

Gaines testified before the Texas Senate Committee to advocate for a ban.

Olympian Simone Biles called Gaines' stance truly sick.

Despite the feud, Gaines remained a devoted Christian and vocal supporter.

Aftermath and Reactions

The incident came a week after Trump issued a foul-mouthed threat against Tehran.

Vice President JD Vance assured Fox that Trump’s post had been a joke.

Image from Daily Mail
Daily MailDaily Mail

Trump had recently called critics like Tucker Carlson losers.

Gaines summarized the episode by saying the post missed the mark.

The image was deleted amid widespread backlash.

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