President Donald Trump sparked controversy by sharing an AI-generated video portraying himself as a powerful monarch amid widespread protests across the United States. The video, posted on his personal and official social media platforms, depicted Trump piloting a fighter jet labeled “KING TRUMP” over what seemed to be Times Square, dousing demonstrators with a brown substance while the song “Danger Zone” by Kenny Loggins played in the background, reminiscent of the Top Gun movies.
The protests, known as “No Kings,” reportedly attracted nearly seven million participants nationwide, highlighting concerns about Trump’s political influence and behavior. In response, Trump’s allies derided the demonstrations, with House Speaker Mike Johnson and other Republican lawmakers referring to them as “Hate America” rallies. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy insinuated that participants were linked to Hamas or Antifa, echoing previous claims about the movement being a domestic terror threat.
Supporters of the President also embraced the “king” theme, circulating AI-generated content showing Trump adorned in royal attire. Vice President JD Vance shared a video depicting Trump wearing a crown and cape while Democrats, including Nancy Pelosi, knelt before him. Additionally, Trump-affiliated accounts distributed satirical Time magazine covers and AI-generated videos of Trump in regal settings at the White House.
These digital displays are part of a larger trend of amplified online posturing. In a similar fashion, back in September, Trump shared an AI-created image of himself in military attire and a cowboy hat with helicopters hovering over a fiery Chicago skyline, captioned “Chipocalypse Now,” drawing parallels to the movie Apocalypse Now.
The President’s use of such imagery and content has drawn mixed reactions from the public, adding to the ongoing debates surrounding his leadership and communication style.