Trump reads Bible in Oval Office

The marathon scripture-reading event, timed to coincide with America's 250th anniversary, features high-profile Republicans and Christian supporters.

Trump's choice of a passage focused on forgiveness and national healing has been described by critics as a 'political stunt' designed to shore up his evangelical base.

Viewers on social media claimed the president appeared to struggle with the reading and was clearly using a teleprompter.

The event highlights Trump's ongoing efforts to align his administration with traditional spiritual foundations despite a history of polarizing religious statements.