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Figures from both sides of the political divide and the Hollywood industry are coming together to condemn Donald Trump for his remarks in the wake of the shocking passing of acclaimed director Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.

An Inflammatory Online Statement

Following the discovery of the couple deceased at their Brentwood residence, Trump took to his platform to describe the deceased director as "tortured and suffering". In a message, he asserted Reiner's death was "due to the anger he caused others through his enormous, unyielding, and untreatable condition with a mind-crippling disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".

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

Police Developments and Detention

Police have since confirmed the arrest of the couple's 32-year-old son, Nick, on charges related to homicide in relation to the incident. Reports indicate his bond was established at a substantial sum.

A Wave of Criticism from Celebrities and Politicians

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

“What a disgusting and vile statement,” remarked actor Patrick Schwarzenegger.

Television host Whoopi Goldberg, who called Reiner a close acquaintance, similarly condemned the statements. She referenced prior rhetoric from Trump regarding political violence, demanding, "Have you no decency? Is it possible to get any lower?"

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

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

Senator Chris Murphy added, "Trump has just crossed a line. Now saying Rob and Michele Reiner brought on their own demise because they opposed him. Deeply disturbing."

Rebuke from Within Party

A number of GOP lawmakers also voiced disapproval.

Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene stated that the situation was "a personal tragedy, not about political feuds or rivals". Greene also mentioned struggles with addiction and psychological well-being within families.

Fellow GOP congressman, Thomas Massie, labeled Trump's discourse "inappropriate and disgraceful" given the nature of the deaths. He openly dared members in his party to justify the comments.

Reiner's History and Stance on Trump

Rob Reiner was long a outspoken critic of Donald Trump. In a past conversation, he argued Trump was "not psychologically suited" for the office. He had also warned about the dangers of authoritarian rule if Trump be reelected to power.

"There is authoritarianism on the rise around the world," Reiner said. "If we crumble, there’s a risk that democracy crumble around the world."

Despite his strong criticisms, Reiner had previously expressed "absolute horror" and condemned violence for political ends unequivocally after the killing of a different political figure.

An Ironic Link: The Art of the Deal

Adding 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 shared the anecdote of the session, noting Trump's request for "a specific hair product" while being photographed on a skyscraper with a view of Central Park.