Condemnation Explodes as Former President Trump's Post on Rob Reiner Spurs Sharp Criticism
Personalities from both sides of the political spectrum and the entertainment industry are coming together to censure former President Donald Trump for his comments following the shocking deaths of esteemed filmmaker Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.
An Inflammatory Online Statement
After the couple were found dead at their Los Angeles residence, Trump took to social media to describe the deceased director as "tortured and struggling". In a post, he asserted Reiner's demise was "because of the anger he caused others through his enormous, relentless, and incurable condition with a debilitating disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".
His comments then pivoted to praising his own achievements, juxtaposing Reiner's supposed "intense obsession" and "obvious paranoia" with what Trump described as the "unprecedented era of America".
Police Developments and Arrest
Authorities have since announced the arrest of the Reiners' adult son, Nick, on charges related to homicide in connection with the incident. Reports indicate his bond was set at a substantial amount.
A Wave of Condemnation from Public Figures
The reaction to Trump's post was immediate and scathing.
“What a appalling and despicable statement,” said actor Patrick Schwarzenegger.
Media personality Whoopi Goldberg, who described Reiner a close acquaintance, also condemned the remarks. She referenced prior comments from Trump about political violence, asking, "Have you no shame? Is it possible to get any lower?"
The state of California's Governor, Gavin Newsom, simply stated, "This is a disturbed man."
Echoing this sentiment, US House member Maxwell Alejandro Frost declared, "He is a despicable piece of garbage."
Senator Chris Murphy commented, "He's just lost it. Now saying the Reiners brought on their own demise because they opposed him. Deeply disturbing."
Criticism from Within Political Ranks
A number of Republican lawmakers also expressed disapproval.
Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene stated that the event was "a family tragedy, not about politics or political enemies". Greene also mentioned challenges with substance abuse and mental health within families.
Fellow GOP congressman, Thomas Massie, called Trump's remarks "inappropriate and disgraceful" given the nature of the deaths. He publicly dared members in his political party to defend the comments.
Reiner's History and Views on Trump
Rob Reiner was consistently a outspoken detractor of Donald Trump. During a past conversation, he argued Trump was "not psychologically suited" for the office. He had also cautioned about the risks of authoritarian rule if Trump be reelected to power.
"There is autocracy on the rise around the world," Reiner said. "If we crumble, there’s a danger that democratic systems collapse around the world."
Despite his strong opposition, Reiner had in the past expressed "complete revulsion" and denounced political violence unequivocally after the shooting of a different political figure.
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 recounted the anecdote of the session, mentioning Trump's request for "special hairspray" as posing on a high-rise with a view of Central Park.