This week, President Donald Trump stirred up a storm of criticism from both sides of the aisle over his comments about Rob Reiner and his wife, who tragically passed away in their California home last weekend.
Reiner, 78 years old, was found dead alongside his wife, Michele Singer, in what has been classified as a double homicide by the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Office following events that occurred on Sunday, December 14.
Less than a day after the news broke, Trump took to social media to share his thoughts on Reiner, sparking backlash from lawmakers, celebrities, and the general public.
Start your day informed. Subscribe for news that matters every morning.
Reiner had often criticized Trump prior to his demise, yet as of December 16, there was no evidence to suggest that his death involved any political motive. Authorities arrested Reiner’s 32-year-old son, Nick Reiner, for murder, setting his initial bail at $4 million before it was revoked entirely as per USA TODAY’s findings on sheriff’s office documents.
What exactly did Trump say about Rob Reiner? Let’s break down his comments.
Trump’s Post on Truth Social Regarding Reiner
On December 15, Trump expressed his views on social media: he suggested Reiner’s death was tied to a specific, fictional “disease” he referred to as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME, claiming, “His passing has reportedly stemmed from the fury he ignited in others…”
He wrote, “Known for driving people CRAZY through his obsessive antics regarding President Donald J. Trump,” in his Truth Social post.
Reiner Described as ‘Deranged’ by Trump
Later, during a press session at The White House that Monday, when asked if he stood by his earlier comments regarding the GOP criticisms, Trump replied, “I wasn’t really a fan of his. To me, he seemed like a deranged person.”
Celebrated for his role in blockbuster hits such as “All in the Family,” Reiner was also a known political activist, passionately supporting progressive causes and closely working tirelessly for Democratic fundraising.
Reporting by Zac Anderson via USA TODAY
Natalie Neysa Alund is a senior reporter for USA TODAY. You can reach her at nalund@usatoday.com and follow her on X @nataliealund
This piece originally appeared on USA TODAY: Trump’s remarks on Rob Reiner: A deeper insight
