Donald Trump has once again provoked a wave of criticism, this time by sharing an AI-generated image of himself as Elvis Presley. The former US president posted the image on his Truth Social platform over the weekend, part of a flurry of roughly 40 posts that included a map of Venezuela draped in the US flag with the caption “51st State” and his face superimposed over Greenland with the message “Hello, Greenland!”.
The Elvis image shows Trump wearing a sequined jumpsuit inspired by the one Presley wore during his 1973 Aloha from Hawaii concert. It is not the first time Trump has invoked the King of Rock and Roll. Earlier this year, he offered to perform at his “Freedom 250” celebration at the Great American State Fair after several acts pulled out, claiming he could draw larger audiences than Elvis “in his prime”.
Backlash from music fans
The latest post has reignited anger among music lovers, many of whom took to social media to express their displeasure. One user wrote that Trump as Elvis “is an insult to all who loved Elvis”, while another commented: “Trump keeps posting that America was once the laughingstock of the world, but now that he is president, it's never been more respected. As an Aussie, I can 100% confirm that Donald Trump is a laughingstock here.”
Others drew contrasts between Trump and Presley. “Unlike Trump, Elvis actually served our nation with honor, distinction, and rock and roll,” one account posted. Another added: “He doesn’t just crave the spotlight, he thinks he’s Elvis in his prime. The ego is off the charts.”
Some critics also pointed to a darker parallel, referencing both the Epstein files and the fact that Elvis met his future wife Priscilla Beaulieu when she was just 14 years old, while he was 24. “The only thing Trump and Elvis have in common is their proclivity for underage girls,” one user wrote.
AI-generated content and its implications
Trump’s use of AI-generated images is part of a broader trend of “memetic warfare” that he has embraced. However, his cultural references often backfire, drawing ire from creators and fans alike. From Superman to Hannibal Lecter and Jedi knights, his attempts to align himself with pop culture icons have repeatedly missed the mark, revealing a lack of understanding of the source material.
The episode also comes as the European Union is set to mandate clear labels for AI-generated content from Sunday, a move aimed at increasing transparency in the digital space. While the regulation targets platforms operating in the EU, it highlights the growing global concern over the spread of synthetic media.
Third-term ambitions
Beyond the cultural controversy, Trump’s recent posts have also fueled speculation about his political ambitions. He has repeatedly hinted at seeking a third term in office, despite the 22nd Amendment of the US Constitution limiting presidents to two terms. In an interview with Real America's Voice, he said he would “love to be the next guy in office”, and he has shared images of himself wearing “Trump 2028” hats.
These statements have drawn concern from critics, who see them as a challenge to democratic norms. The EU, which has often been at odds with Trump on issues ranging from trade to security, is watching these developments closely, particularly given the potential implications for transatlantic relations.
For now, Elvis fans remain “all shook up” by the latest twist in Trump’s ongoing engagement with American pop culture.
