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Individuals from across the political aisle and the Hollywood industry are coming together to denounce Donald Trump for his remarks in the wake of the tragic passing of esteemed director Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.

A Provocative Online Statement

After the couple were found dead at their Brentwood home, Trump took to social media to label the late director as "anguished and struggling". In a message, he claimed Reiner's death was "due to the anger he caused others through his massive, unyielding, and untreatable affliction with a mind-crippling disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".

The post then pivoted to self-praise, juxtaposing Reiner's supposed "raging obsession" and "clear paranoia" with what Trump called the "unprecedented era of America".

Police Developments and Detention

Authorities have since confirmed the arrest of the Reiners' adult son, Nick, on suspicion of homicide in connection with the incident. Reports indicate his bail was established at a significant sum.

A Wave of Criticism from Celebrities and Politicians

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

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

Television host Whoopi Goldberg, who called Reiner a close acquaintance, similarly condemned the statements. She pointed to previous rhetoric from Trump about the killing of an activist, asking, "Do you have no decency? Is it possible to get any worse?"

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

Mirroring this sentiment, US House member Maxwell Alejandro Frost said, "What a contemptible piece of trash."

Senator Chris Murphy commented, "Trump has just lost it. Now implying Rob and Michele Reiner brought on their own murder because they didn’t support him. Deeply disturbing."

Rebuke from His Own Party

Some GOP lawmakers also expressed disapproval.

Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene emphasized that the situation was "a personal tragedy, not about politics or rivals". Greene also mentioned struggles with addiction and mental health some families face.

Another GOP congressman, Thomas Massie, called Trump's remarks "unacceptable and disrespectful" given the nature of the deaths. He publicly challenged members in his political party to defend the comments.

The Director's Legacy and Views on Trump

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

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

Regardless of his pointed criticisms, Reiner had previously expressed "complete revulsion" and denounced violence for political ends without reservation following the shooting of a different individual.

An Ironic Link: The Art of the Deal

Adding a element of historical irony, Michele Reiner, formerly Michele Singer, was the photographer who shot 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 request for "special hairspray" while being photographed on a high-rise with a view of Central Park.