Condemnation Surges as Former President Trump's Post on Rob Reiner Ignites Sharp Criticism
Personalities from across the political divide and the entertainment industry are uniting to denounce Donald Trump for his remarks following the tragic deaths of renowned filmmaker Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.
A Controversial Social Media Post
Following the discovery of the couple dead at their Los Angeles residence, Trump posted on social media to describe the late director as "anguished and suffering". In a post, he asserted Reiner's demise was "due to the hostility he provoked others through his massive, relentless, and untreatable affliction with a debilitating disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".
The post then pivoted to self-praise, contrasting Reiner's alleged "raging obsession" and "clear paranoia" with what Trump described as the "Golden Age of America".
Law Enforcement Developments and Arrest
Authorities have since announced the arrest of the Reiners' adult son, Nick, on suspicion of murder in relation to the incident. Reports indicate his bail was established at a significant amount.
A Torrent of Criticism from Celebrities and Politicians
The response to Trump's words was immediate and harsh.
This is a appalling and vile statement,â remarked actor Patrick Schwarzenegger.
Media personality Whoopi Goldberg, who called Reiner a close acquaintance, also criticized the remarks. Goldberg pointed to previous rhetoric from Trump regarding the killing of an activist, demanding, "Do you have no shame? Can you get any worse?"
California's Democratic governor, Gavin Newsom, succinctly wrote, "This is a disturbed man."
Echoing this sentiment, Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost said, "He is a contemptible piece of trash."
Senator Chris Murphy commented, "He's just lost it. Now implying Rob and Michele Reiner caused their own demise because they didnât support him. So sick."
Criticism from His Own Political Ranks
A number of Republican lawmakers also expressed dismay.
Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene stated that the event was "a family tragedy, not about politics or rivals". She also alluded to challenges with addiction and mental health some families face.
Fellow Republican representative, Thomas Massie, called Trump's discourse "unacceptable and disgraceful" considering the circumstances. He openly challenged others in his political party to defend the comments.
The Director's Legacy and Views on Trump
Rob Reiner was long a outspoken critic of Donald Trump. During a past interview, he stated Trump was "not psychologically suited" for the presidency. He had also cautioned about the dangers of authoritarian rule should Trump be reelected to power.
"We see autocracy on the rise around the world," Reiner noted. "If we fall, thereâs a risk that democratic systems crumble around the world."
Regardless of his strong opposition, Reiner had previously shown "absolute horror" and condemned political violence without reservation following the killing of another political figure.
A Notable Link: The Art of the Deal
Adding a layer of past irony, Michele Reiner, previously Michele Singer, was the photographer 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 photo shoot, mentioning Trump's request for "special hairspray" while being photographed on a high-rise with a view of Central Park.
