Condemnation Surges as Former President Trump's Post on Director Rob Reiner Draws Widespread Criticism
Personalities from both sides of the partisan spectrum and the entertainment industry are uniting to censure Donald Trump for his remarks in the wake of the shocking deaths of esteemed director Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.
A Controversial Online Post
After the couple were found dead at their Brentwood residence, Trump posted on social media to label the late director as "anguished and struggling". In a message, he asserted Reiner's demise was "because of the hostility he provoked others through his massive, unyielding, and incurable condition with a debilitating disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".
His comments then pivoted to self-praise, juxtaposing Reiner's supposed "intense obsession" and "obvious paranoia" with what Trump called the "Golden Age of America".
Law Enforcement Update and Arrest
Police have since announced the detention of the Reiners' 32-year-old son, Nick, on suspicion of homicide in relation to the incident. It is reported his bail was set at a substantial amount.
A Torrent of Condemnation from Celebrities and Politicians
The reaction to Trump's words was immediate and scathing.
This is a vile and despicable comment,” said public figure Patrick Schwarzenegger.
Media personality Whoopi Goldberg, who described Reiner a friend, also criticized the remarks. She pointed to prior rhetoric from Trump regarding political violence, asking, "Have you no shame? Can you get any worse?"
California's Democratic governor, Gavin Newsom, simply wrote, "He is a disturbed man."
Echoing this sentiment, Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost declared, "He is a despicable piece of trash."
Senator Chris Murphy added, "He's just lost it. Now implying the Reiners brought on their own demise because they opposed him. So sick."
Criticism from His Own Party
Some GOP lawmakers also expressed disapproval.
Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene stated that the event was "a family tragedy, not about politics or rivals". She also mentioned challenges with substance abuse and psychological well-being some families face.
Fellow GOP representative, Thomas Massie, labeled Trump's remarks "inappropriate and disrespectful" considering the nature of the deaths. He openly challenged members in his political party to justify the statements.
The Director's History and Views on Trump
Rob Reiner was long a outspoken critic of Donald Trump. During a past interview, he argued Trump was "not psychologically suited" for the office. He had also warned about the risks of autocracy should Trump be reelected to power.
"We see autocracy making its move around the world," Reiner said. "Should the United States fall, there’s a danger that democratic systems crumble around the world."
Regardless of his strong criticisms, Reiner had previously expressed "complete revulsion" and denounced violence for political ends unequivocally following the killing of another individual.
An Ironic Connection: The Art of the Deal
Providing a element of past connection, Michele Reiner, previously Michele Singer, was the photographer who shot the photograph for Donald Trump's 1987 book, The Art of the Deal.
Rob Reiner had once shared the story of the photo shoot, noting Trump's demand for "special hairspray" while being photographed on a high-rise with a view of Central Park.
