GOP Congressman Compares Trump to "Second Coming" Amid Feud with Pope

The ongoing conflict between President Donald Trump and Pope Leo XIV has intensified following Trump's controversial social media post. The feud escalated after the pope criticized a joint U.S.-Israeli military operation in Iran, labeling Trump's threats to destroy Iranian civilization as "truly unacceptable." In response, Trump referred to the pontiff as "WEAK on Crime, and terrible for Foreign Policy" on Truth Social. Trump later attempted to downplay the situation, asserting that he was merely expressing disagreement with the pope, stating, "I can disagree with the pope. I have the right to disagree with the pope."

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In the midst of this controversy, Representative Troy Nehls (R-Texas) publicly expressed unwavering support for Trump, likening him to a "second coming." Nehls remarked, "I believe that Donald Trump is better than sliced bread. I think he’s almost a second coming, in my humble opinion." He emphasized the challenges both Trump and the pope face, asserting that Trump has the "toughest job in the world." Nehls's comments come on the heels of Trump's posting and subsequent deletion of an AI-generated image depicting him in a Christ-like manner, which drew significant backlash from various quarters, including religious leaders and lawmakers.

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The AI-generated image, which portrayed Trump in a long robe with light radiating from his hands, was interpreted by many as blasphemous. Prominent conservative Christian journalist Megan Basham criticized the post, questioning Trump's intentions and suggesting it was "OUTRAGEOUS blasphemy." Following the backlash, Trump removed the image, claiming it had been misinterpreted and that he believed it depicted him as a doctor associated with the Red Cross. However, this explanation has not quelled the criticism, with former Georgia Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene labeling Trump's defense as "absurd."

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The feud with the Vatican and the controversy surrounding Trump's AI post have raised concerns among GOP donors and strategists. Some argue that these issues could distract from domestic priorities as the party prepares for the upcoming midterm elections. Additionally, the rift with the pope may jeopardize Trump's support among Catholic voters, a demographic he previously carried in the 2024 presidential election. Recent polling indicated that Trump's approval rating among Catholic voters was at 48 percent, with 52 percent expressing disapproval prior to the public clash with the pontiff.

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• “I believe that Donald Trump is better than sliced bread. I think he’s almost a second coming, in my humble opinion,” — Rep. Troy Nehls (R-Texas)

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• “I don’t know if the President thought he was being funny or if he is under the influence of some substance or what possible explanation he could have for this OUTRAGEOUS blasphemy,” — Megan Basham, Conservative Christian Journalist

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• “The pope made a statement. He says Iran can have a nuclear weapon. I say Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon,” — President Donald Trump

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This ongoing situation highlights the complex interplay between politics, religion, and public perception as Trump navigates his relationship with both the Catholic Church and his supporters.

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