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Figures from across the political spectrum and the Hollywood world are uniting to denounce former President Donald Trump for his statements following the tragic passing of renowned director Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.

An Inflammatory Social Media Post

Following the discovery of the couple deceased at their Brentwood residence, Trump took to social media to label the late director as "tortured and suffering". In a message, he asserted Reiner's death was "because of the hostility he provoked others through his enormous, relentless, and untreatable condition with a debilitating disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".

The post quickly shifted to praising his own achievements, contrasting Reiner's alleged "raging obsession" and "clear paranoia" with what Trump called the "Golden Age of America".

Police Update and Arrest

Police have since confirmed the detention of the Reiners' 32-year-old son, Nick, on charges related to homicide in relation to the case. Reports indicate his bond was set at a significant sum.

A Torrent of Criticism from Celebrities and Politicians

The response to Trump's words was swift and harsh.

“What a vile and vile comment,” remarked public figure Patrick Schwarzenegger.

Media personality Whoopi Goldberg, who called Reiner a close acquaintance, similarly criticized the remarks. She referenced previous rhetoric from Trump about the killing of an activist, asking, "Have you no shame? Can you get any lower?"

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

Echoing this view, Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost said, "He is a contemptible piece of trash."

Senator Chris Murphy added, "Trump has just crossed a line. Now saying the Reiners brought on their own murder because they didn’t support him. Deeply disturbing."

Rebuke from His Own Party

Some Republican elected officials also expressed dismay.

Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene stated that the event was "a family tragedy, not about political feuds or political enemies". Greene also mentioned challenges with addiction and psychological well-being within families.

Another Republican congressman, Thomas Massie, called Trump's discourse "unacceptable and disrespectful" given the circumstances. He publicly dared others in his political party to defend the statements.

Reiner's History and Views on Trump

Rob Reiner was long a vocal detractor of Donald Trump. In a previous conversation, he argued Trump was "mentally unfit" for the presidency. He had also cautioned about the risks of authoritarian rule should Trump return to power.

"There is authoritarianism on the rise around the world," Reiner noted. "If we fall, there’s a risk that democratic systems crumble around the world."

Regardless of his pointed criticisms, Reiner had previously shown "complete revulsion" and condemned political violence without reservation following the shooting of a different individual.

A Notable Link: The Art of the Deal

Adding a element of historical irony, Michele Reiner, previously 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 photo shoot, noting Trump's demand for "a specific hair product" as being photographed on a high-rise with a view of Central Park.