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Figures from across the political aisle and the Hollywood industry are uniting to censure Donald Trump for his remarks following the tragic deaths of acclaimed director Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.

A Provocative Social Media Post

Following the discovery of the couple dead at their Los Angeles home, Trump took to his platform to describe the deceased director as "tortured and struggling". The message, he claimed Reiner's demise was "due to the hostility he caused others through his massive, relentless, and incurable condition with a mind-crippling disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".

The post then pivoted to praising his own achievements, contrasting Reiner's alleged "intense obsession" and "obvious paranoia" with what Trump described as the "unprecedented era of America".

Police Update and Detention

Authorities have since announced the detention of the Reiners' adult son, Nick, on charges related to murder in relation to the case. Reports indicate his bond was set at a significant amount.

A Torrent of Criticism from Celebrities and Politicians

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

This is a disgusting and vile comment,” said public figure Patrick Schwarzenegger.

Television host Whoopi Goldberg, who called Reiner a friend, also condemned the statements. She referenced prior rhetoric from Trump about the killing of an activist, demanding, "Have you no shame? Is it possible to get any worse?"

California's Governor, Gavin Newsom, simply wrote, "This is a disturbed man."

Echoing this sentiment, Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost declared, "He is a despicable piece of trash."

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

Criticism from His Own Political Ranks

A number of Republican elected officials also voiced dismay.

Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene emphasized that the event was "a personal tragedy, not about politics or political enemies". She also alluded to challenges with substance abuse and mental health within families.

Fellow Republican representative, Thomas Massie, called Trump's discourse "inappropriate and disgraceful" considering the nature of the deaths. He openly challenged members in his political party to defend the statements.

Reiner's History and Views on Trump

Rob Reiner was consistently a vocal critic of Donald Trump. During a previous interview, he stated Trump was "not psychologically suited" for the presidency. He had also warned about the dangers of autocracy if Trump return to power.

"We see authoritarianism on the rise around the world," Reiner said. "If we crumble, there’s a risk that democratic systems collapse around the world."

Regardless of his strong criticisms, Reiner had previously shown "absolute horror" and denounced political violence without reservation following the killing of a different individual.

An Ironic Link: The Art of the Deal

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

Rob Reiner had previously shared 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.