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Figures from across the political aisle and the Hollywood industry are coming together to censure Donald Trump for his remarks following the shocking passing of renowned director Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.

A Provocative Online Statement

Following the discovery of the couple dead at their Brentwood home, Trump posted on social media to label the deceased director as "tortured and suffering". In a message, he asserted Reiner's death was "due to the anger he caused others through his massive, unyielding, and incurable affliction with a debilitating disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".

The post then pivoted to self-praise, juxtaposing Reiner's alleged "intense obsession" and "obvious paranoia" with what Trump described as the "unprecedented era of America".

Police Developments and Arrest

Police have since announced the detention of the Reiners' adult son, Nick, on charges related to homicide in relation to the case. Reports indicate his bond was set at a substantial amount.

A Wave of Criticism from Public Figures

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

This is a disgusting and vile statement,” said public figure Patrick Schwarzenegger.

Television host Whoopi Goldberg, who described Reiner a friend, similarly criticized the statements. Goldberg referenced previous rhetoric from Trump regarding the killing of an activist, asking, "Do you have no shame? Is it possible to get any lower?"

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

Echoing this view, US House member Maxwell Alejandro Frost declared, "He is a contemptible piece of garbage."

Senator Chris Murphy added, "He's just lost it. Now implying Rob and Michele Reiner caused their own murder because they didn’t support him. Deeply disturbing."

Criticism from His Own Party

Some Republican elected officials also voiced dismay.

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

Another Republican congressman, Thomas Massie, labeled Trump's remarks "inappropriate and disrespectful" given the circumstances. He publicly challenged others in his political party to justify the comments.

The Director's History and Stance on Trump

Rob Reiner was consistently a outspoken critic of Donald Trump. During a previous interview, he stated Trump was "mentally unfit" for the presidency. He had also cautioned about the dangers of authoritarian rule if Trump be reelected 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."

Regardless of his strong criticisms, Reiner had previously expressed "absolute horror" and denounced political violence without reservation after the killing of another 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 captured 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 request for "a specific hair product" as being photographed on a skyscraper with a view of Central Park.