Fury Explodes as Trump's Social Media Remarks on Rob Reiner Spurs Fierce Backlash
Personalities from across the political spectrum and the Hollywood industry are coming together to condemn Donald Trump for his statements in the wake of the shocking deaths of acclaimed filmmaker Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.
An Inflammatory Social Media Statement
Following the discovery of the couple dead at their Brentwood residence, Trump posted on his platform to label the deceased director as "anguished and struggling". In a post, he asserted Reiner's death was "because of the anger he provoked others through his massive, relentless, and untreatable condition with a mind-crippling disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".
The post then pivoted to self-praise, juxtaposing Reiner's alleged "raging obsession" and "obvious paranoia" with what Trump called the "Golden Age of America".
Police Update and Arrest
Authorities have since confirmed the detention of the Reiners' adult son, Nick, on charges related to homicide in relation to the incident. It is reported his bail was set at a substantial amount.
A Torrent of Criticism from Celebrities and Politicians
The response to Trump's post was immediate and harsh.
This is a appalling and vile statement,” remarked public figure Patrick Schwarzenegger.
Television host Whoopi Goldberg, who described Reiner a close acquaintance, similarly condemned the remarks. She referenced previous comments from Trump about the killing of an activist, demanding, "Have you no decency? Can you get any lower?"
The state of California's Governor, Gavin Newsom, succinctly wrote, "This is a disturbed man."
Mirroring this view, US House member Maxwell Alejandro Frost said, "What a contemptible piece of garbage."
Senator Chris Murphy added, "Trump has just crossed a line. Now implying Rob and Michele Reiner brought on their own murder because they opposed him. So sick."
Criticism from Within Party
Some Republican elected officials also expressed dismay.
Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene emphasized that the situation was "a personal tragedy, not about political feuds or rivals". Greene also mentioned challenges with addiction and psychological well-being some families face.
Fellow GOP representative, Thomas Massie, called Trump's remarks "unacceptable and disgraceful" given the circumstances. He publicly challenged members in his political party to defend the comments.
Reiner's History and Views on Trump
Rob Reiner was long a vocal critic of Donald Trump. During a previous interview, he argued Trump was "not psychologically suited" for the presidency. He had also warned about the dangers of autocracy should Trump be reelected to power.
"We see authoritarianism on the rise around the world," Reiner noted. "Should the United States fall, there’s a danger that democratic systems crumble around the world."
Despite his pointed opposition, Reiner had previously shown "absolute horror" and denounced violence for political ends unequivocally following the shooting of another political figure.
A Notable Connection: The Art of the Deal
Providing a element of past irony, Michele Reiner, previously Michele Singer, was the photographer who captured the cover image for Donald Trump's iconic book, The Art of the Deal.
Rob Reiner had once shared the anecdote of the session, mentioning Trump's request for "special hairspray" as being photographed on a skyscraper with a view of Central Park.