Federal Housing Finance Agency Director Bill Pulte reportedly shared an AI-generated image with President Trump before the 79-year-old posted it to Truth Social—an image many interpreted as depicting himself as Jesus Christ. The revelation raises questions about who influences the president’s social media presence and why a housing official wields such influence.

The AI Image That Sparked Outrage

Two advisers confirmed Pulte, 37, discussed the controversial image with Trump during a weekend visit to South Florida. The picture showed Trump in Christ-like robes, appearing to heal a sick man with glowing golden hands. The president posted it Sunday, then deleted it Monday after widespread criticism from supporters and critics alike. Even staunch MAGA influencer Brilyn Hollyhand, 19, condemned it as gross blasphemy.

Trump defended the post with a peculiar explanation, claiming it depicted him as a doctor helping people, not as Jesus. He blamed fake news for the Jesus interpretation, stating it showed Red Cross work he supports. Two days later, he posted another religious image showing himself standing alongside Jesus Christ, captioning it as quite nice despite radical left opposition.

Pulte’s Growing Influence and Controversies

The grandson of a major homebuilder founder, Pulte has quietly stirred significant trouble within Trump’s administration. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent threatened to punch the housing czar in the face at a September MAGA dinner, even suggesting they go outside to settle matters physically. Pulte has also pressured Congress to investigate Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell for alleged political bias and deceptive testimony, inflaming presidential anger toward the Fed chief.

Failed Policy Proposals

Pulte championed the administration’s short-lived fifty-year mortgage proposal, which Trump quickly abandoned after public scrutiny. The housing official’s ideas have repeatedly drawn criticism from fellow administration members and policy experts. One adviser told reporters everyone thought the Jesus image was a joke, while another adviser close to Pulte denied he directly gave Trump the meme. The White House and FHFA have not responded to requests for comment on Pulte’s role in the social media controversy.