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Figures from across the political divide and the entertainment world are coming together to denounce former President Donald Trump for his remarks in the wake of the tragic deaths of esteemed director Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.

An Inflammatory Online Post

After the couple were found deceased at their Brentwood residence, Trump posted on social media to describe the deceased director as "tortured and suffering". The post, he asserted Reiner's demise was "due to the anger he caused others through his massive, relentless, and incurable condition with a debilitating disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".

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

Law Enforcement Update and Detention

Police have since announced the detention of the couple's 32-year-old son, Nick, on charges related to homicide in connection with the case. It is reported his bail was established at a significant sum.

A Torrent of Condemnation from Celebrities and Politicians

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

“What a appalling and vile comment,” remarked actor Patrick Schwarzenegger.

Television host Whoopi Goldberg, who called Reiner a close acquaintance, also condemned the statements. She pointed to prior rhetoric from Trump about political violence, asking, "Have you no shame? Is it possible to get any lower?"

California's Democratic governor, Gavin Newsom, succinctly wrote, "He is a sick man."

Mirroring this sentiment, US House member 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 murder because they opposed him. So sick."

Criticism from Within Party

Some Republican lawmakers also expressed disapproval.

Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene emphasized that the event was "a family tragedy, not about politics or rivals". She also alluded to struggles with addiction and mental health some families face.

Another GOP representative, Thomas Massie, labeled Trump's discourse "unacceptable and disgraceful" considering the circumstances. He publicly challenged members in his political party to defend the comments.

Reiner's Legacy and Stance on Trump

Rob Reiner was long a outspoken detractor of Donald Trump. During a past conversation, he argued Trump was "mentally unfit" for the office. He had also warned about the dangers of autocracy if Trump return to power.

"We see autocracy 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 strong opposition, Reiner had previously expressed "complete revulsion" and denounced political violence unequivocally after the killing of a different political figure.

A Notable Connection: The Art of the Deal

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

Rob Reiner had previously recounted the anecdote of the session, noting Trump's demand for "special hairspray" while posing on a high-rise overlooking Central Park.