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Individuals from both sides of the political aisle and the Hollywood world are coming together to condemn former President Donald Trump for his comments following the tragic passing of renowned director Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.

A Controversial Social Media Post

After the couple were found dead at their Brentwood residence, Trump took to his platform to label the late director as "anguished and suffering". The post, he asserted Reiner's demise was "because of the hostility he caused others through his massive, unyielding, and incurable affliction with a mind-crippling disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".

His comments then pivoted to self-praise, juxtaposing Reiner's alleged "raging obsession" and "obvious paranoia" with what Trump called the "unprecedented era of America".

Law Enforcement Developments and Detention

Police have since announced the detention of the Reiners' adult son, Nick, on charges related to murder in relation to the case. It is reported his bail was set at a significant sum.

A Torrent of Criticism from Public Figures

The reaction to Trump's words was swift and scathing.

“What a disgusting and despicable statement,” said actor Patrick Schwarzenegger.

Television host Whoopi Goldberg, who called Reiner a close acquaintance, similarly condemned the statements. Goldberg referenced previous comments from Trump regarding political violence, demanding, "Have you no decency? Is it possible to get any lower?"

The state of California's Democratic governor, Gavin Newsom, succinctly wrote, "This is a disturbed man."

Mirroring this sentiment, Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost declared, "He is a contemptible piece of trash."

Senator Chris Murphy added, "He's just lost it. Now implying the Reiners brought on their own murder because they didn’t support him. So sick."

Criticism from His Own Party

A number of Republican elected officials also voiced dismay.

Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene emphasized that the event was "a personal tragedy, not about political feuds or rivals". She also alluded to struggles with addiction and psychological well-being within families.

Another Republican congressman, Thomas Massie, labeled Trump's remarks "unacceptable and disgraceful" given the nature of the deaths. He publicly dared members in his political party to justify the statements.

Reiner's History and Views on Trump

Rob Reiner was consistently a outspoken detractor of Donald Trump. In a previous interview, he argued Trump was "mentally unfit" for the office. He had also cautioned about the dangers of authoritarian rule should Trump return to power.

"We see authoritarianism making its move around the world," Reiner said. "If we fall, there’s a danger that democratic systems collapse around the world."

Regardless of his strong criticisms, Reiner had in the past shown "complete revulsion" and condemned political violence without reservation following the shooting of another political figure.

A Notable Connection: The Art of the Deal

Providing a element of historical irony, Michele Reiner, formerly 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 shared the anecdote of the session, noting Trump's demand for "a specific hair product" while being photographed on a skyscraper with a view of Central Park.