In the broadcast, Trump read from 2 Chronicles 7:14 as part of the 'America Reads the Bible' event, according to multiple reports. Social media users quickly criticized his delivery, with one X user stating that Trump struggled to read Bible verses and slurred his words. Another added that it might have been his first time seeing the words. Specific words like 'statures', 'astonishment', and 'forsook' appeared to pose difficulties during the reading, though some defenders countered the criticism. A different X user responded that they watched the whole thing and didn't see him struggle, calling it profound. The exact viewership or engagement numbers for the livestream have not been disclosed, and it is unclear what technical issues, if any, affected the autocue during the recording.
The 'America Reads the Bible' event is a weeklong, rightwing gathering where 500 people are taking turns to read the Bible cover to cover, according to reports. It was organized by Bunni Pounds, founder and vice-president of Christians Engaged. Christians Engaged, the organization behind the event, refers to homosexuality and gay marriage as 'abominations', according to one report. The full list of participants and their specific roles in the event has not been made public.
If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.
Trump's participation follows his recent posting of an AI-generated photo that depicted him as Jesus Christ, which he claimed was supposed to portray him as a doctor helping the sick, multiple reports state. This visual sparked controversy and added to ongoing scrutiny of his religious expressions.
Trump has a history of making statements about religion that have drawn attention. He has said the Bible is his favorite book, according to his own remarks. However, during his 2016 campaign, he was unable to name a single Bible verse, reports note. In past comments, Trump referred to communion as 'my little wine' and 'my little cracker', and he has said he has never asked God for forgiveness, based on his statements. Additionally, he once referred to 'Second Corinthians' as 'Two Corinthians', according to reports. Reactions from major Christian leaders or evangelical groups to his latest Bible reading have not been widely reported, leaving the impact on his support among Christian voters uncertain.
Trump struggles to read Bible verses, slurring his words from the Oval Office. This comes one week after he posted an image depicting himself as Jesus Christ.
Trump has also criticized religious figures, having attacked the pope by accusing him of being 'soft on crime', according to reports. In a separate incident, he did not place his hand on the Bible during his 2024 inauguration, reports indicate. These actions contribute to a complex narrative around his engagement with faith-based communities.
When asked does he prefer Old or New Testament, 'Errr probably both, yeah, 50/50. I always say the Bible is my favourite book after The Art of the Deal.' I'm an atheist and I'm more Christian than him!
Well to be honest, it's probably the first time he's seen the words.
He started slurring some months back. It was so noticeable.
I watched the whole thing and I didn't see or hear him struggle or stutter. Actually it was profound and piercing. Maybe you should try reading scriptures.