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Figures from both sides of the political aisle and the entertainment industry are uniting to denounce Donald Trump for his remarks following the tragic deaths of renowned filmmaker Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.

A Controversial Online Post

Following the discovery of the couple dead at their Los Angeles residence, Trump posted on his platform to describe the late director as "anguished and struggling". The post, he asserted Reiner's death was "due to the anger he caused others through his enormous, relentless, and incurable condition with a mind-crippling disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".

His comments 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 Developments and Arrest

Authorities have since confirmed the detention of the Reiners' 32-year-old son, Nick, on charges related to murder in connection with the incident. It is reported his bond was established at a substantial amount.

A Torrent of Criticism from Celebrities and Politicians

The reaction to Trump's words was immediate and scathing.

“What a appalling and despicable comment,” said public figure Patrick Schwarzenegger.

Television host Whoopi Goldberg, who called Reiner a friend, also condemned the statements. Goldberg referenced prior comments from Trump regarding political violence, asking, "Have you no decency? Can you get any worse?"

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

Mirroring this view, Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost declared, "What a contemptible piece of trash."

Senator Chris Murphy added, "Trump has just crossed a line. Now implying Rob and Michele Reiner caused their own murder because they opposed him. So sick."

Criticism from Within Political Ranks

A number of Republican elected officials also expressed disapproval.

Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene emphasized that the event was "a personal tragedy, not about political feuds or political enemies". Greene also mentioned challenges with addiction and psychological well-being within families.

Fellow Republican congressman, Thomas Massie, labeled Trump's remarks "inappropriate and disrespectful" considering the circumstances. He publicly challenged members in his party to justify the comments.

Reiner's History and Views on Trump

Rob Reiner was consistently a vocal critic of Donald Trump. In a previous interview, he stated Trump was "not psychologically suited" for the presidency. He had also cautioned about the risks of authoritarian rule if Trump return to power.

"We see authoritarianism making its move around the world," Reiner noted. "If we fall, there’s a risk that democratic systems crumble around the world."

Regardless of his pointed criticisms, Reiner had previously shown "absolute horror" and denounced political violence without reservation after the shooting of another political figure.

An Ironic Link: The Art of the Deal

Adding a element of historical connection, Michele Reiner, formerly 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, mentioning Trump's request for "a specific hair product" while posing on a high-rise overlooking Central Park.