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Figures from across the political divide and the entertainment world are uniting to condemn former President Donald Trump for his statements following the tragic deaths of esteemed director Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.

A Controversial Online Statement

Following the discovery of the couple dead at their Los Angeles home, Trump posted on social media to describe the late director as "tortured and suffering". In a message, he claimed Reiner's death was "because of the anger he caused others through his massive, unyielding, and incurable condition with a mind-crippling disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".

His comments then pivoted to praising his own achievements, juxtaposing Reiner's alleged "intense obsession" and "obvious paranoia" with what Trump described as the "Golden Age of America".

Police Update and Arrest

Authorities have since announced the detention of the Reiners' adult son, Nick, on suspicion of murder in relation to the incident. It is reported his bail was set at a substantial amount.

A Wave of Condemnation from Celebrities and Politicians

The reaction to Trump's words was swift and harsh.

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

Television host Whoopi Goldberg, who called Reiner a friend, similarly criticized the statements. Goldberg referenced prior comments from Trump regarding political violence, asking, "Do you have no decency? Can you get any worse?"

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

Echoing this view, Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost said, "He is a despicable piece of trash."

Senator Chris Murphy commented, "Trump has just crossed a line. Now saying Rob and Michele Reiner brought on their own demise because they opposed him. Deeply disturbing."

Rebuke from Within Party

A number of Republican elected officials also voiced disapproval.

Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene stated that the situation was "a personal tragedy, not about political feuds or rivals". Greene also mentioned challenges with addiction and mental health some families face.

Another GOP representative, Thomas Massie, labeled Trump's remarks "unacceptable and disrespectful" considering the circumstances. He openly challenged others in his party to defend the statements.

Reiner's History and Stance on Trump

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

"There is autocracy making its move around the world," Reiner noted. "Should the United States crumble, there’s a risk that democratic systems collapse around the world."

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

A Notable Link: The Art of the Deal

Providing a layer of historical connection, Michele Reiner, formerly Michele Singer, was the photographer who captured the photograph for Donald Trump's iconic book, The Art of the Deal.

Rob Reiner had once recounted the story of the photo shoot, mentioning Trump's demand for "special hairspray" while posing on a skyscraper with a view of Central Park.