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Figures from both sides of the partisan aisle and the entertainment industry are uniting to censure former President Donald Trump for his comments in the wake of the tragic passing of renowned filmmaker Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.

A Controversial Social Media Statement

After the couple were found dead at their Brentwood home, Trump posted on his platform to describe the deceased director as "tortured and suffering". In a message, he claimed Reiner's death was "because of the hostility he provoked others through his enormous, relentless, and untreatable affliction with a mind-crippling disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".

The post quickly shifted to praising his own achievements, contrasting Reiner's supposed "raging obsession" and "clear paranoia" with what Trump called the "Golden Age of America".

Police Update and Detention

Authorities have since confirmed the detention of the Reiners' adult son, Nick, on charges related to homicide in relation to the incident. It is reported his bail was established at a significant amount.

A Wave of Criticism from Celebrities and Politicians

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

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

Media personality Whoopi Goldberg, who called Reiner a close acquaintance, similarly condemned the remarks. She pointed to previous rhetoric from Trump regarding political violence, asking, "Do you have no shame? Can you get any lower?"

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

Echoing this sentiment, US House member Maxwell Alejandro Frost said, "He is a despicable piece of garbage."

Senator Chris Murphy added, "Trump has just lost it. Now saying Rob and Michele Reiner caused their own demise because they didn’t support him. So sick."

Rebuke from His Own Political Ranks

Some Republican lawmakers also voiced disapproval.

Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene emphasized that the situation was "a family tragedy, not about political feuds or rivals". She also alluded to challenges with substance abuse and psychological well-being within families.

Another GOP congressman, Thomas Massie, called Trump's remarks "unacceptable and disgraceful" given the nature of the deaths. He openly dared others in his party to defend the comments.

The Director's Legacy and Views on Trump

Rob Reiner was long a outspoken critic of Donald Trump. During a previous conversation, he argued Trump was "not psychologically suited" for the office. He had also cautioned about the risks of authoritarian rule should Trump return to power.

"There is authoritarianism making its move around the world," Reiner noted. "Should the United States fall, there’s a risk that democratic systems crumble around the world."

Despite his pointed opposition, Reiner had previously shown "absolute horror" and condemned violence for political ends without reservation following the killing of another political figure.

A Notable Connection: The Art of the Deal

Adding a element of historical connection, 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 shared the anecdote of the session, noting Trump's request for "special hairspray" while posing on a high-rise overlooking Central Park.