Outrage Surges as Trump's Post on Director Rob Reiner Draws Widespread Criticism
Personalities from both sides of the partisan spectrum and the Hollywood world are coming together to denounce former President Donald Trump for his comments in the wake of the shocking passing of acclaimed filmmaker Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.
An Inflammatory Online Statement
Following the discovery of the couple dead at their Brentwood home, Trump posted on social media to describe the deceased director as "tortured and suffering". In a message, he asserted Reiner's demise was "because of the hostility he provoked others through his massive, unyielding, and untreatable affliction with a debilitating disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".
His comments quickly shifted to praising his own achievements, contrasting Reiner's supposed "raging obsession" and "clear paranoia" with what Trump described as the "Golden Age of America".
Police Update and Detention
Police have since announced the detention of the couple's adult son, Nick, on suspicion of murder in relation to the case. Reports indicate his bond was established at a significant sum.
A Torrent of Criticism from Celebrities and Politicians
The response to Trump's words was swift and harsh.
This is a vile and vile comment,” said actor Patrick Schwarzenegger.
Television host Whoopi Goldberg, who called Reiner a close acquaintance, similarly condemned the remarks. She referenced prior rhetoric from Trump about the killing of an activist, asking, "Do you have no shame? Is it possible to get any worse?"
California's Democratic governor, Gavin Newsom, simply wrote, "He is a sick man."
Echoing this sentiment, US House member Maxwell Alejandro Frost said, "He is a despicable piece of garbage."
Senator Chris Murphy added, "Trump has just lost it. Now saying Rob and Michele Reiner caused their own murder because they didn’t support him. Deeply disturbing."
Rebuke from Within Party
A number of GOP elected officials also expressed disapproval.
Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene stated that the situation was "a personal tragedy, not about political feuds or political enemies". She also mentioned struggles with addiction and mental health within families.
Another Republican representative, Thomas Massie, called Trump's discourse "inappropriate and disgraceful" given the circumstances. He publicly challenged members in his party to defend the comments.
Reiner's Legacy and Views on Trump
Rob Reiner was consistently a outspoken critic of Donald Trump. In a previous conversation, he argued Trump was "not psychologically suited" for the presidency. He had also cautioned about the dangers of autocracy if Trump return to power.
"There is authoritarianism making its move around the world," Reiner said. "If we crumble, there’s a danger that democracy collapse around the world."
Regardless of his pointed opposition, Reiner had in the past shown "absolute horror" and condemned political violence without reservation after the shooting of a different individual.
A Notable Connection: The Art of the Deal
Providing a layer of historical connection, Michele Reiner, formerly Michele Singer, was the artist who shot the cover image for Donald Trump's 1987 book, The Art of the Deal.
Rob Reiner had previously recounted the anecdote of the session, noting Trump's demand for "a specific hair product" while posing on a high-rise overlooking Central Park.
