Fury Explodes as Trump's Social Media Remarks on Rob Reiner Ignites Sharp Criticism
Figures from across the partisan divide and the entertainment world are coming together to denounce Donald Trump for his statements following the shocking passing of esteemed director Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.
A Provocative Online Post
After the couple were found deceased at their Brentwood residence, Trump took to social media to describe the late director as "tortured and suffering". The post, he asserted Reiner's death was "due to the hostility he caused others through his massive, 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 "clear paranoia" with what Trump described as the "Golden Age of America".
Police Update and Arrest
Authorities have since announced the detention of the Reiners' 32-year-old son, Nick, on charges related to homicide in relation to the incident. Reports indicate his bond was established at a significant amount.
A Torrent of Criticism from Public Figures
The response to Trump's post was swift and harsh.
“What a appalling and despicable statement,” remarked public figure Patrick Schwarzenegger.
Television host Whoopi Goldberg, who called Reiner a close acquaintance, similarly criticized the statements. She referenced previous rhetoric from Trump regarding political violence, demanding, "Do you have no shame? Is it possible to get any worse?"
California's Governor, Gavin Newsom, succinctly wrote, "This is a sick man."
Mirroring this view, Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost declared, "He is a despicable piece of garbage."
Senator Chris Murphy commented, "Trump has just lost it. Now saying Rob and Michele Reiner brought on their own murder because they opposed him. So sick."
Criticism from His Own Political Ranks
Some Republican elected officials 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 addiction and psychological well-being within families.
Another Republican congressman, Thomas Massie, called Trump's discourse "unacceptable and disrespectful" given the circumstances. He openly dared members in his political party to defend the statements.
Reiner's History and Stance on Trump
Rob Reiner was consistently 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 risks of autocracy should Trump be reelected to power.
"We see autocracy on the rise around the world," Reiner said. "Should the United States crumble, there’s a risk that democracy crumble around the world."
Despite his pointed criticisms, Reiner had previously shown "absolute horror" and condemned political violence unequivocally following the killing of a different political figure.
An Ironic Connection: The Art of the Deal
Adding a element of past connection, Michele Reiner, formerly Michele Singer, was the artist who shot the cover image for Donald Trump's 1987 book, The Art of the Deal.
Rob Reiner had once recounted the story of the session, noting Trump's demand for "a specific hair product" while posing on a skyscraper overlooking Central Park.