Fury Surges as Former President Trump's Post on Rob Reiner Ignites Widespread Backlash
Personalities from both sides of the political spectrum and the entertainment industry are coming together to censure former President Donald Trump for his remarks following the tragic passing of esteemed director Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.
A Provocative Online Statement
Following the discovery of the couple deceased at their Brentwood residence, Trump posted on social media to label the late director as "tortured and suffering". The message, he asserted Reiner's demise was "because of the hostility he caused others through his enormous, unyielding, and untreatable condition with a debilitating disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".
The post quickly shifted to praising his own achievements, juxtaposing Reiner's alleged "raging obsession" and "obvious paranoia" with what Trump called the "Golden Age of America".
Police Update and Detention
Police have since confirmed the detention of the couple's adult son, Nick, on charges related to murder in connection with the case. It is reported his bond was set at a substantial amount.
A Wave of Condemnation from Celebrities and Politicians
The response to Trump's words was immediate and scathing.
This is a vile and despicable statement,” remarked actor Patrick Schwarzenegger.
Media personality Whoopi Goldberg, who called Reiner a close acquaintance, also criticized the statements. She pointed to previous rhetoric from Trump about the killing of an activist, asking, "Do you have no decency? Is it possible to get any lower?"
The state of California's Governor, Gavin Newsom, succinctly wrote, "He is a sick man."
Mirroring this view, Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost declared, "He is a contemptible piece of garbage."
Senator Chris Murphy commented, "Trump has just lost it. Now saying Rob and Michele Reiner caused their own demise because they didn’t support him. Deeply disturbing."
Criticism from His Own Political Ranks
Some GOP lawmakers also voiced dismay.
Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene emphasized that the event was "a family tragedy, not about politics or rivals". She also mentioned challenges with addiction and psychological well-being some families face.
Fellow Republican congressman, Thomas Massie, labeled Trump's remarks "unacceptable and disgraceful" considering the nature of the deaths. He publicly dared others in his political party to justify the statements.
The Director's Legacy and Views on Trump
Rob Reiner was consistently a outspoken detractor of Donald Trump. During a past conversation, he stated Trump was "not psychologically suited" for the presidency. He had also warned about the risks of autocracy should Trump return to power.
"We see autocracy making its move around the world," Reiner said. "If we fall, there’s a danger that democracy crumble around the world."
Regardless of his strong criticisms, Reiner had previously shown "absolute horror" and denounced political violence without reservation following the shooting of a different political figure.
An Ironic Link: The Art of the Deal
Adding a element of past connection, Michele Reiner, formerly Michele Singer, was the photographer who captured the photograph for Donald Trump's iconic book, The Art of the Deal.
Rob Reiner had previously recounted the anecdote of the session, mentioning Trump's request for "a specific hair product" while posing on a skyscraper overlooking Central Park.