Individuals from across the partisan aisle and the entertainment world are uniting to censure former President Donald Trump for his comments in the wake of the tragic deaths of esteemed director Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.
An Inflammatory Online Statement
After the couple were found dead at their Los Angeles residence, Trump posted on social media to label the deceased director as "tortured and suffering". The post, he asserted Reiner's death was "because of the anger he provoked others through his massive, relentless, and untreatable affliction with a mind-crippling disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".
The post then pivoted to self-praise, juxtaposing Reiner's supposed "intense obsession" and "clear paranoia" with what Trump called the "Golden Age of America".
Law Enforcement Developments and Arrest
Authorities have since announced the detention of the couple's adult son, Nick, on charges related to murder in connection with the case. Reports indicate his bail was established at a substantial amount.
A Torrent of Condemnation from Public Figures
The response to Trump's words was swift and harsh.
“What a vile and vile statement,” said actor Patrick Schwarzenegger.
Media personality Whoopi Goldberg, who described Reiner a close acquaintance, similarly criticized the remarks. She referenced prior comments from Trump regarding political violence, asking, "Have you no shame? Is it possible to get any worse?"
California's Democratic governor, Gavin Newsom, simply wrote, "He is a sick man."
Mirroring this sentiment, US House member Maxwell Alejandro Frost said, "He is a despicable piece of garbage."
Senator Chris Murphy commented, "He's just lost it. Now saying Rob and Michele Reiner caused their own murder because they opposed him. Deeply disturbing."
Criticism from His Own Party
Some Republican lawmakers also expressed dismay.
Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene emphasized that the event was "a personal tragedy, not about politics or rivals". Greene also alluded to struggles with substance abuse and psychological well-being within families.
Another Republican representative, Thomas Massie, called Trump's remarks "inappropriate and disgraceful" considering the circumstances. He publicly dared members in his political party to defend the comments.
Reiner's History and Views on Trump
Rob Reiner was consistently a vocal critic of Donald Trump. During a past interview, he argued Trump was "mentally unfit" for the presidency. He had also warned about the risks of autocracy if Trump be reelected to power.
"There is authoritarianism making its move around the world," Reiner said. "Should the United States fall, there’s a risk that democracy crumble around the world."
Regardless of his pointed criticisms, Reiner had previously shown "complete revulsion" and condemned violence for political ends without reservation after the killing of a different individual.
A Notable Link: The Art of the Deal
Adding a layer of historical connection, Michele Reiner, previously Michele Singer, was the photographer who shot the cover image for Donald Trump's iconic book, The Art of the Deal.
Rob Reiner had previously recounted the anecdote of the session, mentioning Trump's demand for "special hairspray" as posing on a skyscraper with a view of Central Park.
