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Figures from across the political divide and the entertainment industry are uniting to condemn former President Donald Trump for his remarks in the wake of the shocking passing of esteemed filmmaker Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.

A Controversial Social Media Post

After the couple were found dead at their Los Angeles residence, Trump took to social media to describe the deceased director as "tortured and struggling". The post, he asserted Reiner's demise was "due to the hostility he provoked others through his massive, unyielding, and untreatable affliction with a debilitating disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".

The post then pivoted to praising his own achievements, contrasting Reiner's alleged "raging obsession" and "obvious paranoia" with what Trump called the "Golden Age of America".

Law Enforcement Update and Detention

Authorities have since confirmed the arrest of the couple's adult son, Nick, on suspicion of homicide in connection with the case. Reports indicate his bond was set at a substantial sum.

A Torrent of Criticism from Celebrities and Politicians

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

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

Media personality Whoopi Goldberg, who described Reiner a friend, also criticized the statements. Goldberg pointed to previous comments from Trump regarding the killing of an activist, asking, "Do you have no decency? Is it possible to get any lower?"

California's Democratic governor, Gavin Newsom, simply stated, "This is a sick man."

Echoing this sentiment, Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost declared, "What a contemptible piece of trash."

Senator Chris Murphy added, "Trump has just crossed a line. Now saying Rob and Michele Reiner brought on their own demise because they didn’t support him. So sick."

Rebuke from Within Political Ranks

Some Republican lawmakers also expressed disapproval.

Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene stated that the event was "a family tragedy, not about political feuds or political enemies". Greene also mentioned struggles with addiction and mental health some families face.

Another GOP congressman, Thomas Massie, labeled Trump's discourse "inappropriate and disrespectful" considering the circumstances. He publicly dared members in his political party to defend the comments.

The Director's Legacy and Stance on Trump

Rob Reiner was long a vocal critic of Donald Trump. In a past interview, he stated Trump was "not psychologically suited" for the office. He had also cautioned about the dangers of authoritarian rule should Trump be reelected to power.

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

Regardless of his strong opposition, Reiner had in the past shown "complete revulsion" and denounced violence for political ends without reservation following the killing of another individual.

A Notable Link: The Art of the Deal

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

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