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Figures from across the political aisle and the entertainment industry are coming together to censure former President Donald Trump for his statements following the shocking deaths of renowned filmmaker Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.

A Controversial Social Media Post

Following the discovery of the couple deceased at their Los Angeles residence, Trump took to his platform to describe the late director as "tortured and suffering". In a message, he claimed Reiner's demise was "because of the anger he caused others through his massive, relentless, and incurable affliction with a debilitating disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".

The post then pivoted to self-praise, juxtaposing Reiner's alleged "raging obsession" and "obvious paranoia" with what Trump described as the "unprecedented era of America".

Police Update and Detention

Authorities have since confirmed the arrest of the Reiners' 32-year-old son, Nick, on suspicion of homicide in connection with the case. Reports indicate his bail was established at a substantial amount.

A Wave of Condemnation from Celebrities and Politicians

The reaction to Trump's post was immediate and harsh.

This is a vile and despicable comment,” said public figure Patrick Schwarzenegger.

Media personality Whoopi Goldberg, who called Reiner a close acquaintance, also condemned the remarks. Goldberg pointed to previous rhetoric from Trump regarding the killing of an activist, demanding, "Have you no decency? Is it possible to get any lower?"

California's Democratic governor, Gavin Newsom, simply stated, "He is a disturbed man."

Echoing this view, Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost said, "What a despicable piece of garbage."

Senator Chris Murphy added, "He's just crossed a line. Now implying Rob and Michele Reiner brought on their own murder because they didn’t support him. Deeply disturbing."

Criticism from Within Political Ranks

A number of GOP lawmakers also voiced dismay.

Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene stated that the event was "a family tragedy, not about political feuds or political enemies". She also mentioned struggles with substance abuse and mental health within families.

Fellow Republican representative, Thomas Massie, labeled Trump's remarks "unacceptable and disgraceful" given the circumstances. He publicly dared others in his party to justify the comments.

Reiner's History and Views on Trump

Rob Reiner was long a outspoken detractor of Donald Trump. In a past conversation, he stated Trump was "not psychologically suited" for the presidency. He had also cautioned about the dangers of authoritarian rule should Trump return to power.

"There is autocracy on the rise around the world," Reiner said. "If we fall, there’s a danger that democratic systems collapse around the world."

Despite his pointed criticisms, Reiner had previously expressed "absolute horror" and condemned violence for political ends without reservation following the shooting of a different political figure.

A Notable Link: The Art of the Deal

Providing a element of historical connection, Michele Reiner, previously Michele Singer, was the photographer who shot the cover image for Donald Trump's iconic book, The Art of the Deal.

Rob Reiner had once recounted the story of the session, mentioning Trump's demand for "a specific hair product" while being photographed on a skyscraper with a view of Central Park.