Outrage Surges as Trump's Post on Rob Reiner Draws Sharp Rebuke
Figures from both sides of the partisan divide and the Hollywood industry are coming together to condemn former President Donald Trump for his statements following the shocking passing of acclaimed director Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.
An Inflammatory Social Media Statement
After the couple were found dead at their Los Angeles residence, Trump posted on social media to describe the late director as "tortured and struggling". The message, he asserted Reiner's death was "due to the hostility he caused others through his massive, unyielding, and incurable condition with a debilitating disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".
His comments then pivoted to self-praise, juxtaposing Reiner's alleged "intense obsession" and "clear paranoia" with what Trump called the "unprecedented era of America".
Law Enforcement Developments and Detention
Authorities have since announced the arrest of the couple's 32-year-old son, Nick, on suspicion of homicide in connection with the incident. It is reported his bail was established at a significant sum.
A Torrent of Condemnation from Celebrities and Politicians
The response to Trump's words was immediate and scathing.
This is a appalling and vile statement,” remarked actor Patrick Schwarzenegger.
Television host Whoopi Goldberg, who called Reiner a friend, also condemned the remarks. She pointed to previous rhetoric from Trump regarding political violence, demanding, "Have you no shame? Is it possible to get any lower?"
The state of California's Governor, Gavin Newsom, succinctly wrote, "This is a disturbed man."
Mirroring this sentiment, Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost declared, "He is a despicable piece of garbage."
Senator Chris Murphy added, "Trump has just crossed a line. Now saying the Reiners brought on their own demise because they didn’t support him. Deeply disturbing."
Rebuke from His Own Party
A number of GOP lawmakers also expressed disapproval.
Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene emphasized that the situation was "a personal tragedy, not about political feuds or political enemies". Greene also alluded to struggles with substance abuse and psychological well-being some families face.
Fellow Republican congressman, Thomas Massie, called Trump's remarks "unacceptable and disgraceful" considering the nature of the deaths. He publicly dared members in his party to defend the comments.
Reiner's History and Views on Trump
Rob Reiner was consistently a vocal critic of Donald Trump. In a past conversation, he argued Trump was "not psychologically suited" for the office. He had also warned about the risks of autocracy should Trump be reelected to power.
"There is authoritarianism making its move around the world," Reiner noted. "If we fall, there’s a risk that democratic systems collapse around the world."
Regardless of his pointed opposition, Reiner had previously shown "absolute horror" and denounced political violence without reservation after the killing of a different individual.
An Ironic Link: The Art of the Deal
Providing a element of historical connection, Michele Reiner, formerly Michele Singer, was the photographer who shot the photograph for Donald Trump's 1987 book, The Art of the Deal.
Rob Reiner had previously shared the story of the session, noting Trump's request for "special hairspray" as posing on a high-rise with a view of Central Park.