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Figures from both sides of the partisan divide and the Hollywood world are uniting to censure 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 Brentwood residence, Trump took to his platform to describe the deceased director as "tortured and suffering". The post, he claimed Reiner's demise was "because of the anger he caused others through his massive, unyielding, and incurable affliction with a mind-crippling disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".

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

Law Enforcement Developments and Arrest

Authorities have since announced the arrest of the Reiners' 32-year-old son, Nick, on suspicion of homicide in relation to the case. Reports indicate his bond was set at a substantial sum.

A Torrent of Condemnation from Celebrities and Politicians

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

This is a vile and despicable comment,” remarked public figure Patrick Schwarzenegger.

Television host Whoopi Goldberg, who described Reiner a close acquaintance, similarly condemned the statements. She pointed to previous comments from Trump about political violence, demanding, "Have you no decency? Is it possible to get any lower?"

The state of California's Governor, Gavin Newsom, succinctly wrote, "This is a sick man."

Echoing this sentiment, US House member Maxwell Alejandro Frost declared, "What a contemptible piece of garbage."

Senator Chris Murphy added, "He's just lost it. Now implying the Reiners brought on their own demise because they didn’t support him. So sick."

Rebuke from Within Party

Some Republican lawmakers also voiced dismay.

Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene emphasized that the situation was "a personal tragedy, not about politics or rivals". Greene also alluded to challenges with substance abuse and psychological well-being some families face.

Fellow Republican representative, Thomas Massie, called Trump's discourse "unacceptable and disgraceful" given the circumstances. He openly dared members in his party to justify the comments.

Reiner's Legacy and Stance on Trump

Rob Reiner was long a vocal critic of Donald Trump. During a past interview, he argued Trump was "not psychologically suited" for the presidency. He had also warned about the risks of authoritarian rule should Trump return to power.

"We see autocracy on the rise around the world," Reiner noted. "Should the United States fall, there’s a risk that democracy collapse around the world."

Despite his strong criticisms, Reiner had previously shown "absolute horror" and denounced violence for political ends without reservation following the killing of another political figure.

A Notable Connection: The Art of the Deal

Adding a layer of historical connection, 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, mentioning Trump's demand for "special hairspray" while being photographed on a high-rise with a view of Central Park.