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Figures from both sides of the partisan divide and the Hollywood world are coming together to denounce former President Donald Trump for his comments in the wake of the shocking passing of renowned director Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.

A Provocative Social Media Statement

Following the discovery of the couple dead at their Los Angeles residence, Trump posted on his platform to describe the late director as "anguished and suffering". In a message, he asserted Reiner's demise was "because of the hostility he caused others through his massive, unyielding, and incurable affliction with a debilitating disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".

The post quickly shifted to praising his own achievements, juxtaposing Reiner's supposed "intense obsession" and "clear paranoia" with what Trump called the "unprecedented era of America".

Police Developments and Arrest

Police have since announced the detention of the Reiners' 32-year-old son, Nick, on charges related to murder in connection with the incident. Reports indicate his bond was set at a significant amount.

A Torrent of Condemnation from Public Figures

The response to Trump's post was immediate and scathing.

“What a vile and vile statement,” said public figure Patrick Schwarzenegger.

Television host Whoopi Goldberg, who called Reiner a close acquaintance, also criticized the remarks. She referenced prior comments from Trump regarding the killing of an activist, demanding, "Do you have no decency? Can you get any worse?"

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

Echoing this sentiment, Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost said, "What a contemptible piece of garbage."

Senator Chris Murphy commented, "Trump has just crossed a line. Now implying the Reiners caused their own murder because they didn’t support him. Deeply disturbing."

Criticism from His Own Political Ranks

A number of GOP lawmakers also expressed dismay.

Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene emphasized that the situation was "a family tragedy, not about politics or rivals". Greene also mentioned challenges with substance abuse and mental health within families.

Fellow Republican representative, Thomas Massie, labeled Trump's discourse "unacceptable and disgraceful" given the circumstances. He openly challenged members in his party to defend the statements.

The Director's History and Stance on Trump

Rob Reiner was consistently a vocal detractor of Donald Trump. During a previous interview, he stated Trump was "mentally unfit" for the office. He had also cautioned about the dangers of autocracy should Trump return to power.

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

Despite his pointed criticisms, Reiner had in the past expressed "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 past connection, Michele Reiner, formerly 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 session, noting Trump's demand for "a specific hair product" while being photographed on a skyscraper with a view of Central Park.