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Figures from across the partisan divide and the entertainment industry are uniting to censure former President Donald Trump for his statements in the wake of the shocking passing of acclaimed filmmaker Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.

A Controversial Online 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 suffering". In a message, he claimed Reiner's demise was "because of the hostility he caused others through his massive, relentless, and incurable condition with a debilitating disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".

His comments quickly shifted to self-praise, contrasting Reiner's supposed "raging obsession" and "clear paranoia" with what Trump called the "Golden Age of America".

Police Developments and Detention

Authorities have since announced the arrest of the couple's adult son, Nick, on charges related to homicide in relation to the incident. Reports indicate his bail was established at a significant amount.

A Torrent of Criticism from Celebrities and Politicians

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

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

Television host Whoopi Goldberg, who described Reiner a friend, also condemned the statements. Goldberg pointed to prior comments from Trump regarding the killing of an activist, asking, "Do you have no decency? Is it possible to get any worse?"

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

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

Senator Chris Murphy commented, "He's just lost it. Now implying Rob and Michele Reiner brought on their own murder because they opposed him. So sick."

Criticism from Within Party

Some GOP lawmakers also voiced disapproval.

Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene stated that the situation was "a personal tragedy, not about politics or political enemies". Greene also alluded to challenges with addiction and psychological well-being some families face.

Another GOP congressman, Thomas Massie, labeled Trump's remarks "inappropriate and disrespectful" considering the circumstances. He publicly dared members in his party to defend the statements.

Reiner's Legacy and Views on Trump

Rob Reiner was consistently a vocal detractor of Donald Trump. During a past conversation, he stated Trump was "not psychologically suited" for the presidency. He had also warned about the risks of autocracy should Trump return to power.

"We see autocracy making its move around the world," Reiner noted. "Should the United States crumble, there’s a danger that democracy collapse around the world."

Regardless of his strong criticisms, Reiner had previously expressed "absolute horror" and condemned violence for political ends unequivocally following the killing of another political figure.

A Notable Link: The Art of the Deal

Adding a element of past irony, Michele Reiner, formerly Michele Singer, was the artist who captured the cover image for Donald Trump's 1987 book, The Art of the Deal.

Rob Reiner had previously recounted the anecdote of the photo shoot, noting Trump's demand for "a specific hair product" as being photographed on a high-rise overlooking Central Park.