🔗 Share this article

Figures from across the partisan divide and the entertainment world are coming together to censure former President Donald Trump for his remarks in the wake of the tragic passing of esteemed director Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.

A Controversial Online Post

Following the discovery of the couple deceased at their Brentwood residence, Trump posted on social media to label the late director as "tortured and struggling". In a message, he asserted Reiner's demise was "due to the hostility he caused 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, contrasting Reiner's alleged "intense obsession" and "obvious paranoia" with what Trump called the "unprecedented era of America".

Law Enforcement Update and Arrest

Police have since announced the arrest of the Reiners' adult son, Nick, on suspicion of murder in relation to the case. Reports indicate his bail was established at a significant amount.

A Torrent of Condemnation from Celebrities and Politicians

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

This is a disgusting and vile statement,” said actor Patrick Schwarzenegger.

Media personality Whoopi Goldberg, who described Reiner a friend, similarly condemned the remarks. She referenced previous comments from Trump about political violence, asking, "Do you have no decency? Can you get any lower?"

California's Democratic governor, Gavin Newsom, simply stated, "He is a sick man."

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

Senator Chris Murphy added, "He's just lost it. Now saying the Reiners brought on their own demise because they opposed him. Deeply disturbing."

Rebuke from His Own Party

A number of Republican elected officials also expressed disapproval.

Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene emphasized that the event was "a family tragedy, not about political feuds or political enemies". She also alluded to challenges with addiction and psychological well-being some families face.

Another Republican congressman, Thomas Massie, called Trump's remarks "unacceptable and disgraceful" considering the circumstances. He openly dared members in his party to justify the statements.

The Director's History and Stance on Trump

Rob Reiner was long a vocal detractor of Donald Trump. During a previous interview, he argued Trump was "not psychologically suited" for the presidency. He had also cautioned about the risks of autocracy if Trump return to power.

"We see authoritarianism on the rise around the world," Reiner noted. "Should the United States fall, there’s a risk that democracy collapse around the world."

Regardless of his pointed opposition, Reiner had previously expressed "complete revulsion" and denounced political violence without reservation following the killing of a different political figure.

An Ironic Link: The Art of the Deal

Adding a element of historical irony, Michele Reiner, previously Michele Singer, was the photographer who shot the photograph for Donald Trump's iconic book, The Art of the Deal.

Rob Reiner had once recounted the story of the session, noting Trump's demand for "a specific hair product" while being photographed on a skyscraper with a view of Central Park.