Fury Surges as Former President Trump's Post on Rob Reiner Spurs Sharp Criticism
Figures from both sides of the partisan aisle and the Hollywood industry are coming together to denounce Donald Trump for his statements following the tragic deaths of renowned filmmaker Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.
An Inflammatory Online Statement
Following the discovery of the couple deceased at their Los Angeles home, Trump posted on social media to describe the late director as "anguished and struggling". The message, he claimed Reiner's demise was "because of the hostility he provoked others through his massive, relentless, and incurable condition with a mind-crippling disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".
The post quickly shifted to praising his own achievements, juxtaposing Reiner's supposed "raging obsession" and "clear paranoia" with what Trump described as the "unprecedented era of America".
Police Developments and Arrest
Police have since announced the detention of the couple's adult son, Nick, on charges related to homicide in relation to the case. It is reported his bond was established at a significant sum.
A Torrent of Condemnation from Celebrities and Politicians
The response to Trump's post was swift and scathing.
This is a disgusting and despicable comment,” said public figure Patrick Schwarzenegger.
Media personality Whoopi Goldberg, who described Reiner a close acquaintance, also criticized the remarks. She referenced prior comments from Trump about political violence, asking, "Have you no shame? Can you get any worse?"
The state of California's Democratic governor, Gavin Newsom, succinctly wrote, "This is a sick man."
Echoing this sentiment, Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost declared, "What a despicable piece of garbage."
Senator Chris Murphy commented, "He's just crossed a line. Now saying the Reiners caused their own murder because they didn’t support him. So sick."
Criticism from Within Political Ranks
A number of Republican lawmakers also voiced disapproval.
Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene stated that the event was "a personal tragedy, not about politics or rivals". She also mentioned challenges with addiction and psychological well-being within families.
Fellow GOP representative, Thomas Massie, labeled Trump's remarks "unacceptable and disgraceful" considering the circumstances. He publicly challenged members in his party to justify the comments.
Reiner's History and Stance on Trump
Rob Reiner was consistently a outspoken detractor of Donald Trump. During a past conversation, he stated Trump was "mentally unfit" for the office. He had also warned about the risks of authoritarian rule should Trump return to power.
"There is authoritarianism on the rise around the world," Reiner noted. "If we fall, there’s a danger that democratic systems collapse around the world."
Regardless of his strong opposition, Reiner had in the past expressed "complete revulsion" and denounced violence for political ends without reservation following the killing of another individual.
An Ironic Connection: The Art of the Deal
Providing a element of historical connection, Michele Reiner, previously Michele Singer, was the artist who shot the photograph for Donald Trump's 1987 book, The Art of the Deal.
Rob Reiner had previously shared the anecdote of the session, noting Trump's request for "a specific hair product" while being photographed on a high-rise overlooking Central Park.