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Individuals from both sides of the political aisle and the Hollywood world are uniting to denounce Donald Trump for his comments in the wake of the shocking deaths of renowned filmmaker Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.

A Provocative Social Media Statement

Following the discovery of the couple dead at their Brentwood home, Trump took to social media to describe the late director as "tortured and struggling". In a message, he claimed Reiner's demise was "due to the anger he provoked others through his massive, relentless, and incurable affliction with a mind-crippling disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".

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

Police Update and Detention

Authorities have since announced the detention of the Reiners' adult son, Nick, on suspicion of 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 reaction to Trump's words was swift and scathing.

“What a vile and vile comment,” remarked public figure Patrick Schwarzenegger.

Television host Whoopi Goldberg, who described Reiner a close acquaintance, also condemned the remarks. She referenced previous rhetoric from Trump regarding the killing of an activist, demanding, "Do you have no decency? Is it possible to get any worse?"

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

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

Senator Chris Murphy added, "Trump has just lost it. Now saying the Reiners brought on their own demise because they didn’t support him. So sick."

Rebuke from Within Political Ranks

A number of Republican elected officials also voiced disapproval.

Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene emphasized that the situation was "a personal tragedy, not about political feuds or political enemies". She also alluded to struggles with substance abuse and mental health some families face.

Fellow GOP congressman, Thomas Massie, labeled Trump's discourse "unacceptable and disgraceful" given the circumstances. He openly dared members in his 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 previous interview, he stated Trump was "not psychologically suited" for the office. He had also warned about the dangers of autocracy should Trump be reelected to power.

"We see authoritarianism on the rise around the world," Reiner said. "Should the United States crumble, there’s a danger that democracy crumble around the world."

Regardless of his strong opposition, Reiner had in the past expressed "complete revulsion" and denounced political violence without reservation following the killing of a different individual.

An Ironic Link: The Art of the Deal

Providing a layer of past connection, 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 once recounted the anecdote of the session, noting Trump's demand for "a specific hair product" while posing on a high-rise with a view of Central Park.