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Personalities from both sides of the political spectrum and the entertainment industry are coming together to censure former President Donald Trump for his remarks in the wake of the tragic passing of acclaimed director Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.

An Inflammatory Online Post

After the couple were found dead at their Brentwood residence, Trump posted on social media to label the deceased director as "tortured and struggling". In a post, he claimed Reiner's demise was "because of the anger he caused others through his massive, unyielding, and untreatable affliction with a mind-crippling disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".

The post then pivoted to praising his own achievements, contrasting Reiner's alleged "intense obsession" and "clear paranoia" with what Trump described as the "unprecedented era of America".

Law Enforcement Update and Arrest

Police have since announced the detention of the couple's adult son, Nick, on suspicion of homicide in connection with the incident. It is reported his bail was set at a substantial sum.

A Torrent of Condemnation from Public Figures

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

“What a appalling and despicable statement,” remarked actor Patrick Schwarzenegger.

Media personality Whoopi Goldberg, who described Reiner a close acquaintance, similarly condemned the statements. Goldberg referenced previous comments from Trump about political violence, asking, "Do you have no decency? Is it possible to get any worse?"

California's Governor, Gavin Newsom, simply stated, "This is a sick man."

Echoing this view, US House member Maxwell Alejandro Frost declared, "He is a despicable piece of trash."

Senator Chris Murphy added, "He's just lost it. Now saying the Reiners brought on their own murder because they opposed him. Deeply disturbing."

Criticism from Within Party

Some Republican lawmakers also voiced disapproval.

Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene stated that the event was "a family tragedy, not about politics or political enemies". Greene also alluded to struggles with substance abuse and mental health within families.

Fellow GOP representative, Thomas Massie, labeled Trump's discourse "inappropriate and disgraceful" considering the circumstances. He publicly dared members in his party to defend the statements.

The Director's History and Stance on Trump

Rob Reiner was long a outspoken critic of Donald Trump. In a past conversation, he stated Trump was "not psychologically suited" for the office. He had also cautioned about the risks of authoritarian rule if Trump be reelected to power.

"There is authoritarianism making its move around the world," Reiner said. "Should the United States crumble, there’s a risk that democracy crumble around the world."

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

A Notable Connection: The Art of the Deal

Adding a element of historical connection, Michele Reiner, formerly Michele Singer, was the artist who shot the cover image for Donald Trump's 1987 book, The Art of the Deal.

Rob Reiner had previously shared the anecdote of the session, noting Trump's demand for "special hairspray" as being photographed on a skyscraper with a view of Central Park.