🔗 Share this article

Figures from both sides of the partisan divide and the entertainment world are coming together to denounce Donald Trump for his statements following the tragic passing of renowned director Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.

A Provocative Social Media Statement

Following the discovery of the couple dead at their Los Angeles home, Trump posted on social media to describe the late director as "anguished and suffering". The post, he claimed Reiner's death was "due to the anger he caused others through his enormous, relentless, and incurable condition with a mind-crippling disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".

The post quickly shifted to praising his own achievements, contrasting Reiner's alleged "intense obsession" and "obvious paranoia" with what Trump called the "unprecedented era of America".

Law Enforcement Update and Arrest

Authorities have since confirmed the arrest of the Reiners' 32-year-old son, Nick, on charges related to homicide in relation to the case. It is reported his bail was established at a substantial sum.

A Wave of Criticism from Celebrities and Politicians

The response to Trump's post was immediate and scathing.

This is a appalling and vile statement,” remarked public figure Patrick Schwarzenegger.

Television host Whoopi Goldberg, who described Reiner a close acquaintance, also criticized the remarks. She referenced previous rhetoric from Trump about the killing of an activist, asking, "Have you no shame? Can you get any lower?"

The state of California's Governor, Gavin Newsom, succinctly stated, "He is a disturbed man."

Echoing this sentiment, Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost said, "What a despicable piece of trash."

Senator Chris Murphy added, "Trump has just lost it. Now saying Rob and Michele Reiner caused their own murder because they opposed him. So sick."

Criticism from His Own Political Ranks

A number of Republican lawmakers also voiced disapproval.

Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene emphasized that the situation was "a personal tragedy, not about politics or political enemies". She also alluded to struggles with addiction and mental health within families.

Another Republican congressman, Thomas Massie, labeled Trump's remarks "inappropriate and disrespectful" given the nature of the deaths. He publicly dared members in his party to justify the comments.

Reiner's History and Stance 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 presidency. He had also warned about the dangers of authoritarian rule if Trump be reelected to power.

"We see authoritarianism making its move around the world," Reiner noted. "If we fall, there’s a risk that democratic systems collapse around the world."

Despite his strong opposition, Reiner had previously expressed "absolute horror" and condemned political violence unequivocally following the shooting of another political figure.

A Notable Link: The Art of the Deal

Adding a element of historical irony, Michele Reiner, previously Michele Singer, was the artist who captured the cover image for Donald Trump's 1987 book, The Art of the Deal.

Rob Reiner had previously shared the story of the photo shoot, mentioning Trump's request for "special hairspray" as being photographed on a high-rise with a view of Central Park.