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Figures from both sides of the partisan spectrum and the Hollywood world are coming together to condemn Donald Trump for his comments following the shocking passing of renowned director Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.

A Controversial Social Media Post

Following the discovery of the couple deceased at their Brentwood home, Trump took to social media to describe the deceased director as "tortured and struggling". In a message, he claimed Reiner's death was "due to the hostility he caused others through his massive, relentless, and untreatable affliction with a mind-crippling disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".

His comments then pivoted to praising his own achievements, juxtaposing Reiner's supposed "raging obsession" and "obvious paranoia" with what Trump called the "unprecedented era of America".

Law Enforcement Update and Detention

Authorities have since announced the arrest of the Reiners' 32-year-old son, Nick, on charges related to murder in connection with the case. It is reported his bail was set at a substantial sum.

A Wave of Criticism from Celebrities and Politicians

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

This is a disgusting and vile statement,” said actor Patrick Schwarzenegger.

Television host Whoopi Goldberg, who described Reiner a close acquaintance, similarly criticized the remarks. She pointed to prior rhetoric from Trump about the killing of an activist, asking, "Have you no shame? Can you get any worse?"

The state of California's Democratic governor, Gavin Newsom, simply wrote, "He is a sick man."

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

Senator Chris Murphy commented, "He's just crossed a line. Now implying Rob and Michele Reiner brought on their own demise because they didn’t support him. So sick."

Rebuke from Within Political Ranks

Some Republican elected officials also voiced disapproval.

Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene emphasized that the event was "a personal tragedy, not about political feuds or rivals". Greene also mentioned struggles with substance abuse and mental health some families face.

Fellow GOP congressman, Thomas Massie, called Trump's remarks "inappropriate and disgraceful" given the nature of the deaths. He openly challenged others in his political party to defend the statements.

The Director's Legacy and Views on Trump

Rob Reiner was long a outspoken critic of Donald Trump. During a past conversation, he argued Trump was "not psychologically suited" for the office. He had also warned about the risks of autocracy should Trump be reelected to power.

"There is authoritarianism making its move around the world," Reiner said. "If we crumble, there’s a risk that democratic systems collapse around the world."

Regardless of his pointed criticisms, Reiner had in the past shown "absolute horror" and condemned violence for political ends without reservation after the shooting of a different political figure.

An Ironic Connection: The Art of the Deal

Providing a element of historical irony, Michele Reiner, previously Michele Singer, was the artist who captured the cover image for Donald Trump's 1987 book, The Art of the Deal.

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