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Individuals from across the political spectrum and the Hollywood world are coming together to censure former President Donald Trump for his statements in the wake of the tragic passing of esteemed filmmaker Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.

An Inflammatory Social Media Post

Following the discovery of the couple deceased at their Brentwood residence, Trump posted on social media to describe the late director as "anguished and struggling". The post, he claimed Reiner's demise was "because of the anger he caused others through his enormous, relentless, and untreatable condition with a mind-crippling disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".

His comments then pivoted to praising his own achievements, contrasting Reiner's alleged "intense obsession" and "obvious paranoia" with what Trump called the "unprecedented era of America".

Law Enforcement Update and Arrest

Authorities have since announced the arrest of the couple's 32-year-old son, Nick, on suspicion of homicide in relation to the incident. It is reported his bond was established at a significant sum.

A Wave of Condemnation from Celebrities and Politicians

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

“What a appalling and vile statement,” remarked actor Patrick Schwarzenegger.

Television host Whoopi Goldberg, who called Reiner a close acquaintance, also criticized the remarks. She pointed to prior comments from Trump regarding the killing of an activist, asking, "Have you no decency? Can you get any lower?"

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

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

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

Criticism from Within Political Ranks

A number of GOP elected officials also expressed disapproval.

Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene emphasized that the event was "a personal tragedy, not about political feuds or political enemies". She also alluded to struggles with addiction and psychological well-being within families.

Fellow GOP representative, Thomas Massie, called Trump's remarks "unacceptable and disrespectful" considering the nature of the deaths. He publicly challenged members in his political party to defend the comments.

Reiner's History and Stance on Trump

Rob Reiner was consistently a outspoken critic of Donald Trump. In a past interview, he stated Trump was "not psychologically suited" for the office. He had also cautioned about the risks of authoritarian rule should Trump return to power.

"There is autocracy making its move around the world," Reiner said. "If we crumble, there’s a risk that democracy collapse around the world."

Despite his pointed opposition, Reiner had in the past shown "complete revulsion" and denounced political violence unequivocally after the killing of a different political figure.

A Notable Connection: The Art of the Deal

Adding a layer of historical irony, Michele Reiner, formerly 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 recounted the story of the photo shoot, mentioning Trump's request for "special hairspray" as being photographed on a high-rise overlooking Central Park.