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Individuals from both sides of the political divide and the Hollywood world are uniting to censure former President Donald Trump for his comments following the tragic passing of esteemed director Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.

A Provocative Social Media Post

Following the discovery of the couple deceased at their Brentwood home, Trump took to his platform to describe the deceased director as "anguished and suffering". The message, he claimed Reiner's death was "because of the hostility he provoked others through his massive, unyielding, and incurable condition with a mind-crippling disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".

The post quickly shifted to self-praise, contrasting Reiner's alleged "raging obsession" and "clear paranoia" with what Trump described as the "unprecedented era of America".

Law Enforcement Developments and Arrest

Authorities have since announced the arrest of the couple's adult son, Nick, on suspicion of homicide in relation to the case. Reports indicate his bail was established at a significant amount.

A Torrent of Criticism from Public Figures

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

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

Media personality Whoopi Goldberg, who called Reiner a close acquaintance, also condemned the statements. She pointed to prior comments from Trump about the killing of an activist, demanding, "Have you no shame? Can you get any lower?"

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

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

Senator Chris Murphy commented, "Trump has just lost it. Now implying Rob and Michele Reiner brought on their own murder because they opposed him. Deeply disturbing."

Criticism from Within Political Ranks

A number of GOP elected officials also expressed disapproval.

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

Another GOP representative, Thomas Massie, called Trump's remarks "unacceptable and disgraceful" given the circumstances. He openly dared members in his political party to justify the comments.

Reiner's Legacy and Stance on Trump

Rob Reiner was long a vocal critic of Donald Trump. In a previous conversation, he stated Trump was "not psychologically suited" for the office. He had also warned about the dangers of autocracy should Trump be reelected to power.

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

Regardless of his strong criticisms, Reiner had in the past expressed "complete revulsion" and condemned political violence unequivocally following the shooting of another individual.

A Notable Connection: The Art of the Deal

Providing a element of past irony, Michele Reiner, previously Michele Singer, was the photographer who shot the photograph for Donald Trump's iconic book, The Art of the Deal.

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