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Individuals from both sides of the political divide and the Hollywood industry are uniting to denounce Donald Trump for his remarks following the tragic passing of acclaimed director Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.

A Controversial Social Media Statement

After the couple were found dead at their Brentwood residence, Trump took to his platform to describe the deceased director as "anguished and struggling". The post, he claimed Reiner's death was "because of the hostility he caused others through his enormous, relentless, and incurable condition with a debilitating disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".

The post quickly shifted to praising his own achievements, juxtaposing Reiner's alleged "intense obsession" and "obvious paranoia" with what Trump called the "Golden Age of America".

Law Enforcement Update and Detention

Authorities have since confirmed the detention of the couple's adult son, Nick, on charges related to homicide in connection with the case. Reports indicate his bail was established at a significant amount.

A Torrent of Criticism from Celebrities and Politicians

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

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

Media personality Whoopi Goldberg, who described Reiner a friend, also criticized the statements. Goldberg pointed to previous rhetoric from Trump about political violence, asking, "Do you have no shame? Is it possible to get any worse?"

California's Democratic governor, Gavin Newsom, succinctly wrote, "This is a disturbed man."

Echoing this sentiment, US House member Maxwell Alejandro Frost said, "What a contemptible piece of garbage."

Senator Chris Murphy added, "Trump has just lost it. Now saying Rob and Michele Reiner caused their own demise because they didn’t support him. So sick."

Rebuke from Within Party

Some GOP lawmakers also expressed disapproval.

Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene emphasized that the situation was "a personal tragedy, not about politics or political enemies". She also mentioned challenges with addiction and psychological well-being some families face.

Another Republican congressman, Thomas Massie, called Trump's discourse "inappropriate 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 conversation, he argued Trump was "not psychologically suited" for the office. He had also cautioned about the risks of autocracy should Trump be reelected to power.

"We see autocracy on the rise around the world," Reiner noted. "Should the United States crumble, there’s a risk that democratic systems collapse around the world."

Despite his pointed opposition, Reiner had in the past expressed "complete revulsion" and denounced violence for political ends without reservation following the shooting of another political figure.

An Ironic Connection: The Art of the Deal

Adding a layer of historical irony, Michele Reiner, previously Michele Singer, was the artist 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 demand for "a specific hair product" while being photographed on a skyscraper overlooking Central Park.