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Figures from both sides of the political spectrum and the entertainment industry are coming together to denounce former President Donald Trump for his comments following the tragic passing of esteemed director Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.

An Inflammatory Online Statement

Following the discovery of the couple dead at their Brentwood home, Trump took to his platform to describe the late director as "anguished and suffering". In a message, he claimed Reiner's death was "because of the hostility he caused others through his enormous, relentless, and untreatable 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 "obvious paranoia" with what Trump described as the "Golden Age of America".

Police Update and Arrest

Police have since announced the arrest of the couple's adult son, Nick, on suspicion of murder in relation to the incident. Reports indicate his bail was set at a significant amount.

A Torrent of Condemnation from Public Figures

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

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

Media personality Whoopi Goldberg, who described Reiner a close acquaintance, similarly criticized the statements. Goldberg pointed to prior comments from Trump regarding the killing of an activist, asking, "Have you no shame? Is it possible to get any worse?"

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

Echoing this view, US House member Maxwell Alejandro Frost declared, "He is a contemptible piece of garbage."

Senator Chris Murphy added, "Trump has just lost it. Now implying the Reiners caused their own demise because they didn’t support him. Deeply disturbing."

Criticism from Within Political Ranks

A number of GOP lawmakers also voiced disapproval.

Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene emphasized that the event was "a family tragedy, not about politics or political enemies". Greene also alluded to struggles with addiction and psychological well-being some families face.

Another Republican representative, Thomas Massie, labeled Trump's discourse "unacceptable and disgraceful" considering the nature of the deaths. He publicly challenged members in his party to justify the comments.

The Director's History and Views on Trump

Rob Reiner was consistently a outspoken critic of Donald Trump. During a past conversation, he argued Trump was "not psychologically suited" for the office. He had also cautioned about the dangers of authoritarian rule if Trump return to power.

"We see autocracy making its move around the world," Reiner said. "If we crumble, there’s a risk that democracy collapse around the world."

Regardless of his pointed opposition, Reiner had in the past expressed "complete revulsion" and condemned violence for political ends unequivocally following the shooting of another political figure.

A Notable Connection: The Art of the Deal

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

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