Condemnation Explodes as Trump's Post on Rob Reiner Ignites Widespread Backlash
Figures from across the partisan divide and the Hollywood industry are coming together to condemn former President Donald Trump for his remarks following the tragic deaths of acclaimed filmmaker Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.
An Inflammatory Social Media Statement
Following the discovery of the couple deceased at their Los Angeles home, Trump posted on social media to describe the deceased director as "anguished and suffering". The post, he asserted Reiner's death was "because of the anger he provoked others through his massive, relentless, and untreatable affliction with a debilitating disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".
The post then pivoted to praising his own achievements, contrasting Reiner's alleged "raging obsession" and "clear paranoia" with what Trump described as the "Golden Age of America".
Police Developments and Detention
Police have since confirmed the detention of the couple's adult son, Nick, on charges related to homicide in relation to the case. Reports indicate his bond was established at a substantial amount.
A Torrent of Criticism from Public Figures
The response to Trump's words was immediate and harsh.
“What a vile and vile comment,” remarked actor Patrick Schwarzenegger.
Television host Whoopi Goldberg, who called Reiner a friend, similarly condemned the remarks. Goldberg referenced prior comments from Trump about the killing of an activist, asking, "Do you have no shame? Can you get any worse?"
The state of California's Governor, Gavin Newsom, succinctly stated, "He is a sick man."
Mirroring this view, Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost said, "What a contemptible piece of garbage."
Senator Chris Murphy commented, "He's just lost it. Now saying the Reiners brought on their own demise because they didn’t support him. So sick."
Rebuke from His Own Political Ranks
Some Republican lawmakers also expressed dismay.
Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene stated 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 disgraceful" given the nature of the deaths. He openly dared others in his party to justify the statements.
Reiner's Legacy and Stance on Trump
Rob Reiner was consistently a outspoken critic of Donald Trump. In a past interview, he stated Trump was "mentally unfit" for the office. He had also warned about the risks of autocracy if Trump be reelected to power.
"We see authoritarianism on the rise around the world," Reiner said. "Should the United States fall, there’s a danger that democracy collapse around the world."
Despite his strong criticisms, Reiner had previously expressed "complete revulsion" and condemned violence for political ends unequivocally after the killing of a different political figure.
An Ironic Link: The Art of the Deal
Providing a element of historical connection, Michele Reiner, previously Michele Singer, was the artist who shot the cover image for Donald Trump's 1987 book, The Art of the Deal.
Rob Reiner had once recounted the anecdote of the session, noting Trump's request for "special hairspray" as being photographed on a skyscraper overlooking Central Park.