Fury Erupts as Former President Trump's Comments on Director Rob Reiner Spurs Fierce Backlash
Figures from across the partisan divide and the entertainment world are coming together to censure Donald Trump for his comments following the shocking passing of renowned filmmaker Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.
An Inflammatory Online Statement
After the couple were found dead at their Los Angeles home, Trump took to social media to label the deceased director as "tortured and struggling". The message, he claimed Reiner's death was "due to the hostility he provoked others through his enormous, relentless, and untreatable condition with a debilitating disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".
The post then pivoted to praising his own achievements, juxtaposing Reiner's alleged "intense obsession" and "clear paranoia" with what Trump described as the "unprecedented era of America".
Law Enforcement Update and Arrest
Police have since announced the arrest of the Reiners' 32-year-old son, Nick, on charges related to murder in connection with the case. Reports indicate his bond was set at a significant sum.
A Torrent of Condemnation from Celebrities and Politicians
The reaction to Trump's words was immediate and scathing.
This is a disgusting and vile comment,” said public figure Patrick Schwarzenegger.
Television host Whoopi Goldberg, who called Reiner a close acquaintance, also criticized the remarks. Goldberg pointed to prior comments from Trump regarding political violence, asking, "Have you no shame? Is it possible to get any worse?"
California's Governor, Gavin Newsom, simply stated, "He is a sick man."
Mirroring this view, Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost declared, "What a despicable piece of garbage."
Senator Chris Murphy commented, "Trump has just crossed a line. Now implying Rob and Michele Reiner caused their own demise because they didn’t support him. Deeply disturbing."
Rebuke from His Own Party
A number of GOP lawmakers also voiced dismay.
Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene emphasized that the situation was "a family tragedy, not about politics or political enemies". She also mentioned challenges with addiction and psychological well-being within families.
Another GOP congressman, Thomas Massie, labeled Trump's remarks "inappropriate and disrespectful" considering the nature of the deaths. He publicly dared members in his political party to justify the statements.
Reiner's History and Stance on Trump
Rob Reiner was long a outspoken detractor of Donald Trump. In a past conversation, he argued Trump was "not psychologically suited" for the office. He had also cautioned about the dangers of authoritarian rule should Trump return to power.
"We see autocracy on the rise around the world," Reiner noted. "If we fall, there’s a risk that democracy crumble around the world."
Despite his pointed opposition, Reiner had in the past shown "absolute horror" and condemned violence for political ends unequivocally following the shooting of a different political figure.
A Notable Link: The Art of the Deal
Adding a layer of historical irony, Michele Reiner, formerly Michele Singer, was the photographer who captured the photograph for Donald Trump's 1987 book, The Art of the Deal.
Rob Reiner had previously shared the anecdote of the photo shoot, noting Trump's request for "special hairspray" while being photographed on a skyscraper with a view of Central Park.