Outrage Erupts as Trump's Comments on Rob Reiner Draws Sharp Criticism
Individuals from across the political divide and the Hollywood world are uniting to condemn Donald Trump for his remarks in the wake of the shocking deaths of renowned filmmaker Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.
An Inflammatory Online Post
After the couple were found deceased at their Brentwood residence, Trump posted on social media to label the deceased director as "anguished and suffering". The message, he claimed Reiner's demise was "because of the anger he caused others through his enormous, relentless, and untreatable 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 "unprecedented era of America".
Police Update and Arrest
Police have since announced the arrest of the Reiners' adult son, Nick, on charges related to murder in connection with the case. Reports indicate his bond was set at a substantial amount.
A Wave of Condemnation from Celebrities and Politicians
The reaction to Trump's words was immediate and scathing.
This is a appalling and despicable statement,” said public figure Patrick Schwarzenegger.
Television host Whoopi Goldberg, who called Reiner a close acquaintance, also condemned the remarks. She pointed to prior comments from Trump regarding political violence, asking, "Do you have no decency? Is it possible to get any lower?"
California's Democratic governor, Gavin Newsom, simply wrote, "This is a sick man."
Echoing this sentiment, US House member Maxwell Alejandro Frost said, "He is a despicable piece of garbage."
Senator Chris Murphy commented, "Trump has just lost it. Now implying Rob and Michele Reiner caused their own murder because they opposed him. So sick."
Rebuke from His Own Party
A number of Republican lawmakers also voiced disapproval.
Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene emphasized that the event was "a personal tragedy, not about political feuds or rivals". Greene also alluded to struggles with substance abuse and mental health some families face.
Fellow GOP congressman, Thomas Massie, labeled Trump's remarks "inappropriate and disgraceful" given the circumstances. He openly challenged members in his party to defend the statements.
The Director's History and Views 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 presidency. He had also warned about the dangers of authoritarian rule if Trump return to power.
"We see autocracy on the rise around the world," Reiner noted. "Should the United States crumble, there’s a risk that democratic systems collapse around the world."
Despite his strong opposition, Reiner had in the past expressed "complete revulsion" and condemned political violence unequivocally after the shooting of another political figure.
A Notable Connection: The Art of the Deal
Adding a layer of historical connection, Michele Reiner, formerly Michele Singer, was the artist who shot the cover image for Donald Trump's iconic book, The Art of the Deal.
Rob Reiner had previously recounted the story of the session, noting Trump's request for "a specific hair product" as being photographed on a high-rise with a view of Central Park.