US President Donald Trump doubled down on his support for the Jewish community in the country, stating that he “loves Israel” at the White House’s Hanukkah celebration. Trump’s remarks, which came days after the recent Bondi Beach mass shooting in Australia’s Sydney, led to netizens speculating online about the POTUS’ religious roots, generating thousands of Google searches.
After the attack, Trump had asked Jews to celebrate Hannukah, an eight-day Jewish festival, also known as the Festival of Lights, “proudly” and take pride in their religious roots.
Is Trump Jewish?
Trump is not Jewish. He, however, has been vocal in his support for the community. His daughter Ivanka Trump, is married to Jewish businessman, Jared Kushner, and she converted to Judaism upon her marriage. Trump has also openly extended his support to Israel during the Israel-Hamas war.
Why ‘is Trump Jewish’ trending online then?
During the White House Hannukah event, he was referred to as America’s “first Jewish president,” by talk show host Mark Levin, who shared a stage with Trump, and also called him the “greatest”. In the past, Trump has made several supportive remarks for the Jewish community.
“The miracle of Hanukkah has reminded us of God’s love for the Jewish people as well as their enduring resilience and faith in the face of centuries of persecution,” he told the largely Jewish audience on Tuesday.
“As president of the United States, I will always support Jewish Americans…I will always be a friend and a champion of the Jewish people,” he said, according to LBC.
What religion does Trump follow?
A 2020 Pew Research Center poll had found that only 44% of Americans believe Trump is a Christian. Trump was, however, raised as a Presbyterian Christian even as he has said that he is non-denominational, according to the Presbyterian Church.
He had also commented on the Catholic faith, with the first American Pope, Leo XIV, and called it a “great honour”, according to the BBC.