Figures from across the political spectrum and the entertainment world are coming together to denounce Donald Trump for his remarks in the wake of the tragic passing of acclaimed filmmaker Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.
An Inflammatory Social Media Post
Following the discovery of the couple dead at their Los Angeles home, Trump took to social media to describe the late director as "anguished and struggling". In a message, he claimed Reiner's demise was "because of the anger he provoked others through his enormous, relentless, and incurable condition with a mind-crippling disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".
The post quickly shifted to self-praise, juxtaposing Reiner's alleged "intense obsession" and "obvious paranoia" with what Trump described as the "Golden Age of America".
Law Enforcement Update and Detention
Police have since confirmed the arrest of the Reiners' adult son, Nick, on charges related to homicide in relation to the case. It is reported his bond was set at a significant sum.
A Wave of Criticism from Celebrities and Politicians
The reaction to Trump's post was immediate and harsh.
This is a vile and despicable statement,” said public figure Patrick Schwarzenegger.
Media personality Whoopi Goldberg, who called Reiner a close acquaintance, similarly condemned the remarks. Goldberg referenced prior rhetoric from Trump regarding the killing of an activist, asking, "Have you no shame? Is it possible to get any lower?"
California's Democratic governor, Gavin Newsom, simply wrote, "This is a disturbed man."
Echoing this view, Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost declared, "What a despicable piece of trash."
Senator Chris Murphy commented, "Trump has just lost it. Now implying Rob and Michele Reiner caused their own demise because they didn’t support him. Deeply disturbing."
Criticism from Within Party
Some Republican lawmakers also expressed dismay.
Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene stated that the situation was "a family tragedy, not about politics or rivals". Greene also alluded to struggles with addiction and psychological well-being within families.
Fellow Republican congressman, Thomas Massie, labeled Trump's discourse "inappropriate and disgraceful" considering the circumstances. He publicly challenged others in his political party to justify the comments.
The Director's Legacy and Stance on Trump
Rob Reiner was consistently a vocal critic of Donald Trump. During a previous conversation, he stated Trump was "not psychologically suited" for the presidency. He had also warned about the dangers of authoritarian rule if Trump be reelected to power.
"We see authoritarianism on the rise around the world," Reiner said. "If we fall, there’s a danger that democratic systems crumble around the world."
Despite his strong opposition, Reiner had in the past expressed "complete revulsion" and denounced violence for political ends without reservation after the shooting of a different political figure.
An Ironic Link: The Art of the Deal
Providing a layer of historical connection, Michele Reiner, formerly Michele Singer, was the artist who captured the photograph for Donald Trump's iconic book, The Art of the Deal.
Rob Reiner had once shared the anecdote of the photo shoot, noting Trump's request for "a specific hair product" while posing on a skyscraper with a view of Central Park.
