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Individuals from across the political spectrum and the Hollywood industry are uniting to denounce former President Donald Trump for his remarks in the wake of the shocking deaths of renowned director Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.

An Inflammatory Online Post

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

His comments then pivoted to praising his own achievements, contrasting Reiner's alleged "intense obsession" and "clear paranoia" with what Trump called the "unprecedented era of America".

Law Enforcement Update and Detention

Authorities have since announced the detention of the couple's adult son, Nick, on charges related to murder in connection with the incident. Reports indicate his bond was established at a significant amount.

A Torrent of Condemnation from Celebrities and Politicians

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

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

Media personality Whoopi Goldberg, who called Reiner a close acquaintance, also criticized the remarks. She referenced previous comments from Trump regarding political violence, asking, "Have you no shame? Is it possible to get any worse?"

The state of California's Governor, Gavin Newsom, simply wrote, "This is a disturbed man."

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

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

Criticism from His Own Political Ranks

A number of GOP elected officials also voiced disapproval.

Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene stated that the event was "a family tragedy, not about politics or political enemies". She also mentioned challenges with addiction and psychological well-being some families face.

Fellow Republican representative, Thomas Massie, labeled Trump's remarks "unacceptable and disgraceful" considering the circumstances. He openly challenged others in his political party to defend the statements.

The Director's Legacy and Stance on Trump

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

"There is authoritarianism making its move around the world," Reiner noted. "Should the United States fall, there’s a danger that democracy collapse around the world."

Despite his strong criticisms, Reiner had in the past expressed "complete revulsion" and denounced political violence unequivocally after the killing of a different political figure.

A Notable Link: The Art of the Deal

Providing a layer of past irony, Michele Reiner, previously Michele Singer, was the photographer who captured the cover image for Donald Trump's 1987 book, The Art of the Deal.

Rob Reiner had previously shared the story of the session, mentioning Trump's request for "special hairspray" while being photographed on a high-rise overlooking Central Park.