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Individuals from both sides of the partisan spectrum and the Hollywood industry are uniting to denounce Donald Trump for his statements following the tragic passing of acclaimed filmmaker Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.

A Controversial Social Media Statement

Following the discovery of the couple deceased at their Brentwood residence, Trump took to social media to describe the deceased director as "tortured and struggling". In a message, he claimed Reiner's demise was "due to the anger he caused others through his massive, unyielding, and untreatable affliction with a debilitating disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".

His comments quickly shifted to praising his own achievements, contrasting Reiner's alleged "raging obsession" and "clear paranoia" with what Trump described as the "unprecedented era of America".

Police Update and Detention

Police have since confirmed the arrest of the Reiners' adult son, Nick, on charges related to murder in connection with the case. It is reported his bond was established at a significant sum.

A Torrent of Criticism from Celebrities and Politicians

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

This is a appalling and vile comment,” remarked actor Patrick Schwarzenegger.

Media personality Whoopi Goldberg, who described Reiner a close acquaintance, similarly criticized the remarks. She referenced previous rhetoric from Trump about political violence, asking, "Do you have no shame? Is it possible to get any worse?"

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

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

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

Rebuke from Within Political Ranks

Some GOP lawmakers also expressed dismay.

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

Another Republican representative, Thomas Massie, called Trump's discourse "unacceptable and disrespectful" considering the circumstances. He openly challenged members in his party to defend the statements.

The Director's History and Stance on Trump

Rob Reiner was long a outspoken critic of Donald Trump. In a past conversation, he stated Trump was "mentally unfit" for the presidency. He had also cautioned about the dangers of authoritarian rule should Trump return to power.

"We see autocracy on the rise around the world," Reiner said. "Should the United States fall, there’s a danger that democracy crumble around the world."

Regardless of his strong opposition, Reiner had in the past expressed "absolute horror" and denounced violence for political ends without reservation after the killing of a different political figure.

An Ironic Connection: The Art of the Deal

Adding a layer of historical connection, Michele Reiner, previously Michele Singer, was the photographer who shot the cover image for Donald Trump's 1987 book, The Art of the Deal.

Rob Reiner had previously shared the story of the session, noting Trump's demand for "a specific hair product" while being photographed on a high-rise overlooking Central Park.