President Donald Trump posted a controversial message blaming actor Rob Reiner for the director’s death, sparking criticism from fellow lawmakers and raising questions about the president’s conduct during a national tragedy.
The Incident
On Sunday, Rob Reiner and his wife Michele Singer Reiner were found dead at their Los Angeles home. Police investigators believe the couple suffered stab wounds, and their son Nick Reiner was in police custody early Monday. The death was reported as an apparent homicide, and investigators are still probing the circumstances.
Trump’s Social Media Post
Trump’s post appeared on his social media network on Monday, directly blaming Reiner’s outspoken opposition for the killings. He wrote that Reiner and his wife were killed “reportedly due to the anger he caused others through his massive, unyielding, and incurable affliction with a mind crippling disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME.”
He added that Reiner “was known to have driven people CRAZY by his raging obsession of President Donald J. Trump, with his obvious paranoia reaching new heights as the Trump Administration surpassed all goals and expectations of greatness.” Trump’s language was unusually harsh for a sitting president, especially in the wake of a tragedy.
Reiner’s Background
Rob Reiner was a celebrated director of films such as “The Princess Bride” and “When Harry Met Sally.” He was an active Democrat who campaigned for liberal causes, hosted fundraisers, and was a vocal critic of Trump. In a 2017 interview with Variety, Reiner called Trump “mentally unfit” to be president and “the single‑most unqualified human being to ever assume the presidency of the United States.”
Reiner’s wife, Michele Singer Reiner, was a photographer. Peter Osnos, the original publisher of “The Art of the Deal,” confirmed that Michele Singer took the cover image for Trump’s 1987 bestseller. The couple’s public profiles made the tragedy a national story.
Reactions from Politicians
Kentucky Republican Rep. Thomas Massie criticized Trump’s comment, saying, “Regardless of how you felt about Rob Reiner, this is inappropriate and disrespectful discourse about a man who was just brutally murdered.” He added, “I guess my elected GOP colleagues, the VP, and White House staff will just ignore it because they’re afraid? I challenge anyone to defend it.”
Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, a Georgia Republican whom Trump branded a “traitor,” responded by saying, “This is a family tragedy, not about politics or political enemies.”
Republican Reps. Mike Lawler of New York and Stephanie Bice of Oklahoma also criticized Trump’s message, calling the post uncalled‑for and insensitive. Their statements echoed a broader sentiment that the president’s remarks were inappropriate.
White House Response
The White House shared the president’s post on its own social media channels but did not respond to the criticism it was receiving. When asked by reporters later Monday, Trump doubled down on his criticism of Reiner. Using the third person, he said Reiner “was a deranged person as far as Trump is concerned.”
He added, “I was not a fan of Rob Reiner at all, in any way shape or form,” and continued, “I thought he was very bad for our country.” Trump’s remarks were framed as an expression of personal opinion rather than a statement of fact.
Context and Past Comments
Trump’s post is part of a pattern of inflammatory remarks that have drawn criticism from across the political spectrum. The article references past comments by Trump about other political figures and incidents, including the attack on Nancy Pelosi’s husband and the death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. In each case, Trump’s responses were seen as dismissive or hostile, reinforcing a perception that he prioritizes political grievance over empathy.
Key Takeaways
- President Trump blamed actor Rob Reiner for the director’s death in a controversial social media post.
- The couple were found dead with stab wounds, and their son Nick Reiner was in police custody.
- Republican lawmakers, including Thomas Massie and Marjorie Taylor Greene, criticized the president’s remarks as inappropriate.
- The White House shared the post but did not address the backlash.
- Trump’s comments reflect a broader pattern of inflammatory statements about political opponents.
The incident highlights the tension between political rhetoric and the need for respectful dialogue during times of tragedy. The ongoing investigation into Reiner’s death and the political fallout from Trump’s remarks will likely continue to dominate headlines in the coming days.
Morgan J. Carter is a Texas-based journalist covering breaking news, local government, public safety, and community developments across Austin. With more than six years of reporting experience, Morgan focuses on delivering accurate, clear, and timely stories that reflect the fast-moving pulse of the city.
At newsofaustin.com, Morgan reports on everything from severe weather alerts and traffic updates to city council decisions, crime reports, and the issues shaping daily life in Austin. Known for reliable fact-checking and a strong commitment to public-interest journalism, Morgan brings readers the information they need to stay informed and engaged.
When not tracking a developing story, Morgan enjoys exploring Austin’s neighborhoods, attending local events, and connecting with residents to share the voices and experiences that define the community.
