Rob Reiner, renowned for directing iconic films like “This is Spinal Tap,” “Stand By Me,” and “When Harry Met Sally,” was also a vocal political figure. An ardent Democrat, he advocated for issues such as childhood education and marriage equality. Reiner was notably critical of Donald Trump, often expressing his disapproval.
After the untimely passing of Reiner and his wife, Michele Singer Reiner, Donald Trump responded with a statement on Truth Social, criticizing Reiner’s views over the years. Trump’s remarks were particularly harsh, describing Reiner as “a tortured and struggling, but once very talented movie director and comedy star,” and attributing his death to “Trump Derangement Syndrome.” Trump claimed Reiner’s “raging obsession” with him drove him to paranoia.
Despite Trump’s comments, Reiner’s criticism of him was well-documented. He frequently labeled Trump as “mentally unfit” and compared him to an autocrat, making his disdain known.
Rob Reiner Criticizes Trump’s Mental Fitness
In December 2017, at the Dubai International Film Festival, Reiner made headlines by declaring Trump “mentally unfit” for the presidency. He told Variety that Trump was “the single most unqualified human being to ever assume the presidency,” criticizing his lack of understanding and interest in government.
Reiner also criticized President George W. Bush’s administration, linking it to his film “Shock and Awe.” He described the Iraq invasion as a major foreign policy disaster, a view ironically shared by Trump, who initially supported the war.
Reiner’s comments sparked both support and backlash, with some praising him as a legend and others dismissing his views.
Reiner Compares Trump to an Autocrat
In 2018, Reiner compared Trump’s leadership to that of an autocracy, warning of democracy’s fragile state globally. He told The Guardian that autocrats create confusion and blame others, then claim they alone can resolve issues. Reiner linked this to Brexit and Trump’s campaign.
On MSNBC’s “Velshi” in October 2025, Reiner warned of a potential shift to autocracy, citing Trump’s use of ICE and the National Guard in cities. He speculated that military presence at polling stations could lead to violent protests, allowing Trump to control future elections.
Reiner’s predictions and critiques left many to ponder whether his views were exaggerated or an accurate reflection of political realities.
Reiner Labels Trump a Criminal
Reiner’s criticism of Trump reached a peak with a viral tweet in December 2018, where he called Trump a “mentally unstable criminal.” He warned that impeachment was inevitable, a prediction that came true with Trump’s impeachments in 2019 and 2021.
In May 2023, amid a turbulent period for Trump, Reiner reacted to a controversial CNN town hall where Trump insulted E. Jean Carroll and repeated election fraud claims. Reiner tweeted, labeling Trump as “a Liar, a Criminal, and mentally ill,” following Trump’s conviction on 34 felonies.
