Donald Trump pays tribute to scandal-plagued televangelist Jimmy Swaggart, calling him an "incredible Man of Faith." Critics question the former president’s praise amid Swaggart’s controversial past.
Trump Honors Jimmy Swaggart Amidst Lingering Scandals
Former President Donald Trump has drawn mixed reactions after posting a heartfelt tribute to Jimmy Swaggart, the disgraced televangelist who passed away at 90 following a recent heart attack.
On Truth Social, Trump praised Swaggart as:
"An incredible Man of Faith who inspired millions with his Great Love of God and Country."
The former president extended condolences to Swaggart’s wife, Frances, and son, Donnie, who now leads the Jimmy Swaggart Ministries.
A Polarizing Legacy: Fame, Scandal, and Redemption
Swaggart’s career was marked by extraordinary success and spectacular downfall:
· 1980s Megachurch Empire: At his peak, Swaggart’s ministry earned $142 million annually, reaching 2 million households through televised sermons.
· Prostitution Scandals: In 1988, he was defrocked by the Assemblies of God after being photographed with a sex worker. He tearfully confessed on live TV but avoided specifics.
· Repeat Offense: In 1991, he was pulled over with another sex worker, Rosemary Garcia, leading to another public apology.
· Anti-LGBTQ Remarks: In 2004, Swaggart told his congregation he would "kill" a gay man who flirted with him—a statement he later apologized for.
Trump’s Connection to the Swaggart Family
Trump has long aligned himself with evangelical leaders, including Swaggart’s son, Donnie, who publicly endorsed Trump’s re-election in 2024, calling him a defender of "the unborn" and traditional values.
Public Reaction: Praise vs. Criticism
· Supporters see Trump’s tribute as honoring Swaggart’s spiritual influence.
· Critics argue it whitewashes his scandals, questioning why Trump would celebrate a figure with such a checkered past.
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