Condemnation Explodes as Former President Trump's Social Media Remarks on Director Rob Reiner Draws Widespread Rebuke
Personalities from both sides of the political divide and the Hollywood world are uniting to denounce Donald Trump for his statements following the shocking passing of esteemed filmmaker Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.
A Provocative Online Post
After the couple were found dead at their Los Angeles residence, Trump posted on social media to label the deceased director as "tortured and suffering". The post, he asserted Reiner's demise was "due to the anger he caused others through his massive, unyielding, and untreatable affliction with a mind-crippling disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".
His comments then pivoted to self-praise, contrasting Reiner's alleged "intense obsession" and "clear paranoia" with what Trump called the "unprecedented era of America".
Police Update and Detention
Police have since confirmed the detention of the couple's adult son, Nick, on suspicion of homicide in connection with the incident. Reports indicate his bail was set at a substantial amount.
A Wave of Criticism from Public Figures
The reaction to Trump's post was swift and scathing.
“What a appalling and despicable statement,” said public figure Patrick Schwarzenegger.
Television host Whoopi Goldberg, who described Reiner a close acquaintance, similarly criticized the statements. Goldberg referenced prior rhetoric from Trump about political violence, asking, "Do you have no shame? Is it possible to get any worse?"
California's Democratic governor, Gavin Newsom, succinctly stated, "He is a disturbed man."
Mirroring this view, Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost declared, "What a contemptible piece of garbage."
Senator Chris Murphy commented, "Trump has just crossed a line. Now saying the Reiners brought on their own demise because they opposed him. So sick."
Criticism from His Own Party
Some GOP lawmakers also voiced dismay.
Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene emphasized that the situation was "a family tragedy, not about political feuds or political enemies". She also mentioned challenges with substance abuse and psychological well-being some families face.
Fellow Republican representative, Thomas Massie, labeled Trump's remarks "unacceptable and disgraceful" given the nature of the deaths. He publicly challenged others in his party to defend the statements.
The Director's History and Stance on Trump
Rob Reiner was long a outspoken detractor of Donald Trump. During a previous conversation, he argued Trump was "not psychologically suited" for the office. He had also cautioned about the dangers of authoritarian rule if Trump be reelected to power.
"There is authoritarianism making its move around the world," Reiner noted. "Should the United States crumble, there’s a risk that democracy crumble around the world."
Despite his strong criticisms, Reiner had in the past expressed "complete revulsion" and denounced violence for political ends without reservation after the killing of a different individual.
A Notable Link: The Art of the Deal
Adding a layer of historical irony, Michele Reiner, formerly Michele Singer, was the artist who shot the photograph for Donald Trump's iconic book, The Art of the Deal.
Rob Reiner had previously recounted the story of the session, mentioning Trump's demand for "special hairspray" as posing on a skyscraper with a view of Central Park.