Trump Faces Skepticism Over Jesus Claim Reversal

Former president's attempt to walk back controversial religious comments met with doubt

Apr. 13, 2026 at 5:19pm

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A close-up view of an American flag hanging on a wooden post, the fabric weathered and the colors muted, casting long shadows across the frame and creating a sense of melancholy and uncertainty.The former president's claims of a deeper faith have sparked renewed debate over the intersection of religion and politics.NYC Today

Former President Donald Trump is facing skepticism from some religious leaders and political observers over his recent attempt to walk back controversial comments he made earlier this year claiming he was the 'second coming of God' and 'the King of Israel.' Trump now says his previous statements were just 'jokes' that were taken out of context, but not everyone is convinced by his backtrack.

Why it matters

Trump's religious rhetoric has long been a source of controversy, with critics accusing him of using faith for political gain. His latest comments have reignited debates over the appropriate role of religion in politics and whether Trump is sincere in his professed Christian beliefs.

The details

In January 2026, Trump made headlines when he declared himself the 'second coming of God' and the 'King of Israel' during a rally in Florida. The comments were widely condemned by religious leaders and political opponents as blasphemous. Now, several months later, Trump is attempting to walk back those statements, claiming they were just 'jokes' that were taken out of context.

  • In January 2026, Trump made the controversial 'second coming of God' and 'King of Israel' comments.
  • Several months later, in April 2026, Trump is now trying to backtrack on those previous statements.

The players

Donald Trump

The former president of the United States who is facing skepticism over his recent attempt to walk back his previous controversial religious comments.

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What they’re saying

“I don't think anyone is buying this latest attempt by Trump to rewrite history. His past comments speak for themselves.”

— Rev. William Barber, Civil rights activist and co-chair of the Poor People's Campaign

“Trump has a long history of using religion for his own political gain. This latest backtrack is just another example of his cynical exploitation of faith.”

— Rabbi Jill Jacobs, Executive Director of T'ruah: The Rabbinic Call for Human Rights

The takeaway

Trump's religious rhetoric continues to be a source of controversy, with many questioning the sincerity of his professed Christian beliefs. His latest attempt to walk back his 'second coming of God' comments has done little to quell the skepticism, as critics argue he has a history of using faith for political gain.