Tuesday, December 16, 2025

Media Condemns Trump's Posting on Reiner Murders


Mainstream news outlets across the political spectrum have sharply criticized President Donald Trump's response to the stabbing deaths of Hollywood director Rob Reiner and his wife Michele Singer Reiner, calling his comments insensitive, inappropriate, and a politicization of a family tragedy that drew rare bipartisan backlash, including from some Republicans.

Trump posted on Truth Social that Reiner, a longtime vocal critic, suffered from "Trump Derangement Syndrome" (TDS) and suggested without evidence that the murders were "reportedly due to the anger he caused others" through his obsession with Trump. He described Reiner as "tortured and struggling" and "deranged," later doubling down by saying he "wasn't a fan" and accusing Reiner of promoting the "Russia hoax."


Coverage emphasized the remarks as a stark departure from presidential norms of offering condolences, especially since police arrested the couple's son, Nick Reiner, on suspicion of murder—with no indicated political motive.
  • Outlets like The New York Times, CNN, and The Guardian highlighted immediate outrage and bipartisan condemnation, noting even Trump allies like Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene called it a "family tragedy, not about politics."
  • Politico, Axios, and NPR reported rare GOP pushback, with Rep. Thomas Massie deeming it "inappropriate and disrespectful."
  • Reuters, ABC News, and Al Jazeera framed the comments as baseless and divisive, sparking criticism from celebrities, Democrats, and some conservatives.
  • Right-leaning Breitbart reported Trump's statements factually but noted his unapologetic stance, while some MAGA figures defended him.
  • Conservative radio host Erick Erickson (a syndicated commentator) publicly criticized Trump's comments on social media, calling them tiring and inappropriate.
  • Other conservative voices in podcasts or online commentary (e.g., Jack Posobiec, Jenna Ellis) expressed sympathy for the Reiner family.
The Reiners
Overall, the dominant narrative portrays Trump's response as callous and unpresidential amid a non-political homicide.

Background on the Incident

Rob Reiner, 78, known for directing classics like The Princess Bride and When Harry Met Sally, and his wife Michele, 68, were found stabbed to death in their Brentwood home on December 14, 2025. Their son Nick, 32, was arrested and booked on murder charges; reports mention his history of drug issues, but no motive has been confirmed.

Trump's post and follow-up remarks on December 15 contrasted with widespread mourning from figures like former President Obama and Hollywood stars, who focused on the couple's legacy without politicizing the deaths.
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