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In a shocking display of political insensitivity, President Donald Trump took to Truth Social to comment on the tragic deaths of filmmaker Rob Reiner and his wife Michele, attributing the murders to what he called “Trump Derangement Syndrome” mere hours after their bodies were discovered.
The post appeared on Trump’s Truth Social account at 9:51 a.m. EST on Monday, December 15, 2025, approximately 15 hours after the couple’s daughter made the gruesome discovery at their Los Angeles home. Law enforcement officials had already announced by that time that the Reiners’ 32-year-old son, Nick Reiner, had been booked on suspicion of murder.
“A very sad thing happened last night in Hollywood,” Trump wrote in his message. “Rob Reiner, a tortured and struggling, but once very talented movie director and comedy star, has passed away, together with his wife, Michele, 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, sometimes referred to as TDS.”
The president continued his commentary by suggesting Reiner’s criticism of him had somehow played a role in the tragedy. “He 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, and with the Golden Age of America upon us, perhaps like never before. May Rob and Michele rest in peace!”
Rob Reiner, 78 at the time of his death, was one of Hollywood’s most influential directors, known for classics including “When Harry Met Sally,” “A Few Good Men,” and “The Princess Bride.” Beyond his entertainment career, Reiner had established himself as a prominent progressive voice in American politics and had been an outspoken critic of Trump throughout his political career.
The Los Angeles Police Department confirmed that the bodies were discovered at approximately 3:40 p.m. PST on Sunday, December 14, when one of the Reiners’ daughters visited their home. Authorities have released few details about the circumstances surrounding the murders, but confirmed that Nick Reiner had been taken into custody and charged with the stabbing deaths of his parents.
The term “Trump Derangement Syndrome” has become a common refrain among the president’s supporters in recent years, used to dismiss and belittle critics who express concerns about his policies or behavior. Mental health professionals have repeatedly noted that this is not a recognized medical condition but rather a political pejorative intended to delegitimize opposition.
The president’s decision to politicize this family tragedy has drawn widespread condemnation from both sides of the political aisle. Several Republican lawmakers privately expressed discomfort with the timing and tone of Trump’s remarks, while Democratic leaders called the comments “unconscionable” and “a new low.”
Hollywood colleagues of Reiner have begun issuing statements honoring his legacy and expressing shock at the circumstances of his death. The Directors Guild of America released a statement celebrating Reiner’s contributions to cinema and calling for privacy for the family during their time of mourning.
The Reiner family, through their representative, has declined to comment on the president’s statements, asking instead for space to grieve privately. Nick Reiner, who reportedly struggled with substance abuse issues in the past, is expected to be arraigned later this week.
This incident marks yet another controversial moment in Trump’s second term, which has been characterized by increasingly divisive rhetoric and political polarization. Media watchdog groups have noted that the president’s social media presence has become more inflammatory since his return to office, with posts often generating substantial controversy and dominating news cycles.
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13 Comments
While Trump’s comments are controversial, we should resist the urge to politicize this tragedy. Our thoughts should be with the Reiner family as the investigation unfolds.
I agree. We need to allow the facts to come to light before jumping to conclusions about the motives or circumstances surrounding this incident.
This is a deeply saddening event, and Trump’s remarks only serve to further muddy the waters. We should wait for the authorities to provide more information before speculating.
Regardless of one’s political leanings, this is a heartbreaking loss of life. The focus should be on the victims and their loved ones, not on partisan finger-pointing.
Tragic loss of life. Rather than jump to political accusations, we should allow the authorities to investigate and determine the facts. My heart goes out to the Reiner family during this difficult time.
Tragic news, though Trump’s comments are highly inappropriate and insensitive. We should focus on the victims and avoid politicizing this terrible incident.
I agree, speculating about the motives or casting blame is not helpful at this point. Our condolences should be with the Reiner family.
This is a very sad situation. While I’m no fan of Trump, making unsubstantiated claims about the cause of the murders is irresponsible. Let’s wait for the facts to emerge before jumping to conclusions.
Absolutely. Politicizing a tragedy like this is distasteful. The focus should be on honoring the victims, not scoring political points.
Tragic news indeed. However, Trump’s accusations are unhelpful and potentially damaging. Let’s focus on supporting the Reiner family during this difficult time.
Well said. Maintaining compassion and restraint is crucial, even in the face of such a horrific incident.
This is a terrible situation, and Trump’s comments only serve to further divide and inflame emotions. We should refrain from speculation and wait for the investigation to run its course.
Well said. Maintaining perspective and compassion is important, even in the face of such a tragic event.