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Personalities from both sides of the political aisle and the entertainment world are coming together to censure Donald Trump for his remarks in the wake of the shocking deaths of acclaimed director Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.

An Inflammatory Online Post

Following the discovery of the couple deceased at their Brentwood home, Trump took to his platform to describe the late director as "anguished and struggling". The message, he asserted Reiner's death was "because of the anger he provoked others through his massive, relentless, and untreatable condition with a mind-crippling disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".

His comments quickly shifted to praising his own achievements, juxtaposing Reiner's alleged "intense obsession" and "obvious paranoia" with what Trump described as the "unprecedented era of America".

Law Enforcement Update and Detention

Police have since announced the arrest of the Reiners' adult son, Nick, on suspicion of homicide in connection with the incident. It is reported his bond was set at a significant sum.

A Torrent of Criticism from Public Figures

The reaction to Trump's words was immediate and scathing.

“What a appalling and despicable statement,” said actor Patrick Schwarzenegger.

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

The state of California's Democratic governor, Gavin Newsom, succinctly stated, "He is a sick man."

Mirroring this view, Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost said, "What a contemptible piece of trash."

Senator Chris Murphy commented, "He's just crossed a line. Now implying Rob and Michele Reiner caused their own murder because they opposed him. Deeply disturbing."

Criticism from Within Political Ranks

Some Republican elected officials also expressed dismay.

Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene stated that the situation was "a family tragedy, not about political feuds or political enemies". She also alluded to challenges with addiction and psychological well-being some families face.

Fellow Republican representative, Thomas Massie, called Trump's remarks "inappropriate and disgraceful" considering the nature of the deaths. He publicly dared others in his political party to defend the statements.

The Director's History and Views on Trump

Rob Reiner was long a outspoken detractor of Donald Trump. In a previous conversation, he argued Trump was "not psychologically suited" for the presidency. 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 danger that democratic systems crumble around the world."

Despite his strong criticisms, Reiner had previously expressed "absolute horror" and denounced political violence unequivocally following the killing of another political figure.

A Notable Connection: The Art of the Deal

Providing a layer of historical connection, 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 previously shared the story of the photo shoot, mentioning Trump's request for "special hairspray" while being photographed on a high-rise with a view of Central Park.