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Figures from across the political divide and the Hollywood industry are coming together to condemn former President Donald Trump for his comments in the wake of the tragic deaths of esteemed director Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.

An Inflammatory Social Media Statement

Following the discovery of the couple dead at their Los Angeles residence, Trump posted on social media to describe the deceased director as "tortured and struggling". In a post, he asserted Reiner's death was "because of the anger he provoked others through his enormous, relentless, and untreatable condition with a mind-crippling disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".

The post quickly shifted to praising his own achievements, contrasting Reiner's supposed "intense obsession" and "obvious paranoia" with what Trump described as the "unprecedented era of America".

Law Enforcement Update and Arrest

Police have since confirmed the detention of the Reiners' 32-year-old son, Nick, on charges related to murder in relation to the case. Reports indicate his bond was set at a substantial sum.

A Torrent of Condemnation from Celebrities and Politicians

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

This is a vile and despicable comment,” remarked actor Patrick Schwarzenegger.

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

California's Governor, Gavin Newsom, succinctly wrote, "This is a sick man."

Mirroring this view, US House member Maxwell Alejandro Frost said, "He is a contemptible piece of trash."

Senator Chris Murphy added, "Trump has just crossed a line. Now implying Rob and Michele Reiner brought on their own demise because they opposed him. So sick."

Rebuke from Within Political Ranks

A number of GOP lawmakers also expressed disapproval.

Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene emphasized that the situation was "a personal tragedy, not about political feuds or political enemies". She also mentioned challenges with substance abuse and mental health within families.

Fellow GOP congressman, Thomas Massie, labeled Trump's remarks "inappropriate and disgraceful" considering the nature of the deaths. He openly dared members in his political party to defend the statements.

The Director's History and Views on Trump

Rob Reiner was long a outspoken detractor of Donald Trump. In a previous interview, he stated Trump was "mentally unfit" for the presidency. He had also warned about the risks of autocracy if Trump return to power.

"There is authoritarianism on the rise around the world," Reiner said. "If we crumble, there’s a danger that democratic systems crumble around the world."

Despite his pointed criticisms, Reiner had previously expressed "absolute horror" and condemned political violence without reservation following the shooting of another political figure.

A Notable Connection: The Art of the Deal

Adding a element of past irony, Michele Reiner, formerly Michele Singer, was the artist who captured the cover image for Donald Trump's iconic book, The Art of the Deal.

Rob Reiner had previously shared the story of the session, mentioning Trump's request for "a specific hair product" while posing on a skyscraper with a view of Central Park.