Fury Erupts as Former President Trump's Post on Director Rob Reiner Ignites Sharp Rebuke
Figures from both sides of the partisan aisle and the entertainment world are coming together to condemn former President Donald Trump for his comments following the tragic passing of renowned director Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.
A Provocative Social Media Post
After the couple were found deceased at their Los Angeles home, Trump posted on social media to label the late director as "anguished and struggling". In a post, he asserted Reiner's demise was "due to the anger he provoked others through his massive, relentless, and incurable affliction with a debilitating disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".
His comments then pivoted to self-praise, contrasting Reiner's alleged "raging obsession" and "clear paranoia" with what Trump described as the "unprecedented era of America".
Law Enforcement Update and Detention
Authorities have since announced the arrest of the Reiners' 32-year-old son, Nick, on charges related to murder in connection with the incident. Reports indicate his bail was established at a significant sum.
A Wave of Criticism from Public Figures
The reaction to Trump's words was swift and scathing.
“What a appalling and despicable statement,” remarked actor Patrick Schwarzenegger.
Media personality Whoopi Goldberg, who described Reiner a close acquaintance, also condemned the remarks. She referenced previous comments from Trump regarding the killing of an activist, asking, "Have you no shame? Can you get any lower?"
The state of California's Democratic governor, Gavin Newsom, simply stated, "This is a disturbed man."
Echoing this view, Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost said, "He is a contemptible piece of trash."
Senator Chris Murphy added, "Trump has just crossed a line. Now saying the Reiners brought on their own demise because they opposed him. Deeply disturbing."
Criticism from His Own Political Ranks
A number of Republican lawmakers also voiced disapproval.
Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene emphasized that the event was "a family tragedy, not about political feuds or rivals". Greene also alluded to challenges with substance abuse and mental health some families face.
Another Republican representative, Thomas Massie, labeled Trump's discourse "unacceptable and disgraceful" given the nature of the deaths. He publicly dared others in his political party to defend the statements.
Reiner's History and Stance on Trump
Rob Reiner was long a outspoken critic of Donald Trump. During a previous conversation, he stated Trump was "not psychologically suited" for the presidency. He had also cautioned about the dangers of authoritarian rule if Trump return to power.
"We see autocracy on the rise around the world," Reiner noted. "Should the United States crumble, there’s a danger that democratic systems crumble around the world."
Despite his pointed opposition, Reiner had previously shown "complete revulsion" and condemned violence for political ends unequivocally after the killing of another individual.
A Notable Link: The Art of the Deal
Adding a element of past connection, Michele Reiner, previously Michele Singer, was the artist who captured the photograph for Donald Trump's 1987 book, The Art of the Deal.
Rob Reiner had previously shared the story of the photo shoot, noting Trump's demand for "special hairspray" as being photographed on a high-rise overlooking Central Park.