Fury Erupts as Trump's Comments on Director Rob Reiner Draws Sharp Backlash
Personalities from both sides of the political spectrum and the entertainment industry are uniting to condemn former President Donald Trump for his statements in the wake of the shocking passing of renowned director Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.
A Controversial Social Media Statement
After the couple were found deceased at their Brentwood residence, Trump posted on social media to label the deceased director as "anguished and suffering". In a post, he asserted Reiner's death was "because of the anger he caused others through his massive, relentless, and untreatable affliction with a mind-crippling disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".
The post quickly shifted to self-praise, juxtaposing Reiner's supposed "raging obsession" and "obvious paranoia" with what Trump called the "unprecedented era of America".
Police Update and Detention
Authorities have since confirmed the arrest of the Reiners' adult son, Nick, on charges related to murder in connection with the case. Reports indicate his bail was set at a significant amount.
A Torrent of Condemnation from Public Figures
The response to Trump's post was swift and harsh.
This is a disgusting and despicable comment,” said public figure Patrick Schwarzenegger.
Television host Whoopi Goldberg, who described Reiner a friend, also criticized the statements. She pointed to previous rhetoric from Trump regarding political violence, demanding, "Do you have no decency? Is it possible to get any worse?"
The state of California's Governor, Gavin Newsom, simply wrote, "He is a disturbed man."
Mirroring this sentiment, Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost said, "He is a despicable piece of trash."
Senator Chris Murphy added, "He's just lost it. Now implying the Reiners brought on their own murder because they didn’t support him. So sick."
Rebuke from Within Political Ranks
Some GOP lawmakers also voiced disapproval.
Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene emphasized that the event was "a family tragedy, not about political feuds or rivals". Greene also alluded to struggles with addiction and psychological well-being within families.
Another Republican representative, Thomas Massie, called Trump's remarks "unacceptable and disgraceful" given the circumstances. He publicly challenged members in his party to defend the statements.
Reiner's History and Stance on Trump
Rob Reiner was long a outspoken detractor of Donald Trump. In a past interview, he argued Trump was "not psychologically suited" for the office. He had also warned about the risks of autocracy if Trump return to power.
"There is autocracy making its move around the world," Reiner said. "If we crumble, there’s a risk that democracy collapse around the world."
Despite his strong opposition, Reiner had in the past expressed "complete revulsion" and condemned violence for political ends without reservation following the killing of a different individual.
A Notable Connection: The Art of the Deal
Providing a layer of historical connection, Michele Reiner, previously Michele Singer, was the photographer who shot the photograph for Donald Trump's iconic book, The Art of the Deal.
Rob Reiner had once shared the story of the session, noting Trump's demand for "special hairspray" while posing on a high-rise overlooking Central Park.