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Figures from across the political spectrum and the entertainment world are uniting to denounce Donald Trump for his remarks in the wake of the tragic deaths of renowned director Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.

An Inflammatory Social Media Statement

After the couple were found dead at their Brentwood residence, Trump posted on social media to describe the deceased director as "tortured and struggling". The post, he asserted Reiner's death was "because of the anger he provoked others through his massive, unyielding, and incurable condition with a debilitating disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".

His comments then pivoted to self-praise, contrasting Reiner's supposed "raging obsession" and "clear paranoia" with what Trump called the "unprecedented era of America".

Police Update and Detention

Police have since confirmed the arrest of the Reiners' adult son, Nick, on suspicion of homicide in relation to the case. Reports indicate his bail was established at a substantial amount.

A Wave of Criticism from Public Figures

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

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

Media personality Whoopi Goldberg, who called Reiner a close acquaintance, similarly criticized the remarks. Goldberg referenced previous comments from Trump about political violence, asking, "Do you have no decency? Can you get any worse?"

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

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

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

Criticism from His Own Political Ranks

Some Republican lawmakers also voiced dismay.

Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene stated that the event was "a personal tragedy, not about politics or rivals". Greene also alluded to challenges with substance abuse and mental health within families.

Fellow GOP representative, Thomas Massie, labeled Trump's remarks "unacceptable and disgraceful" considering the nature of the deaths. He publicly dared others in his political party to justify the comments.

Reiner's History and Views on Trump

Rob Reiner was consistently a vocal detractor of Donald Trump. In a past conversation, he argued Trump was "not psychologically suited" for the presidency. He had also warned about the risks of autocracy if Trump be reelected to power.

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

Despite his pointed criticisms, Reiner had in the past expressed "absolute horror" and condemned violence for political ends unequivocally following the shooting of another individual.

An Ironic Link: The Art of the Deal

Adding a layer of past connection, Michele Reiner, formerly Michele Singer, was the photographer who shot the cover image for Donald Trump's iconic book, The Art of the Deal.

Rob Reiner had once recounted the anecdote of the session, mentioning Trump's request for "special hairspray" as posing on a high-rise overlooking Central Park.