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Individuals from both sides of the political spectrum and the Hollywood industry are uniting to denounce former President Donald Trump for his statements following the shocking passing of acclaimed filmmaker Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.

A Controversial Online Statement

Following the discovery of the couple dead at their Los Angeles residence, Trump posted on his platform to label the deceased director as "anguished and suffering". In a post, he asserted Reiner's demise was "because of the anger he caused others through his enormous, relentless, and incurable condition with a mind-crippling disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".

The post quickly shifted to self-praise, juxtaposing Reiner's supposed "intense obsession" and "clear paranoia" with what Trump called the "unprecedented era of America".

Police Update and Detention

Authorities have since confirmed the arrest of the couple's 32-year-old son, Nick, on suspicion of homicide in relation to the incident. Reports indicate his bail was established at a significant amount.

A Torrent of Criticism from Public Figures

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

“What a disgusting and despicable comment,” remarked public figure Patrick Schwarzenegger.

Media personality Whoopi Goldberg, who described Reiner a friend, also condemned the statements. She referenced previous comments from Trump regarding political violence, asking, "Do you have no shame? Can you get any lower?"

California's Democratic governor, Gavin Newsom, succinctly stated, "He is a disturbed man."

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

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. So sick."

Criticism from His Own Party

A number of GOP lawmakers also expressed dismay.

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

Fellow Republican congressman, Thomas Massie, labeled Trump's remarks "unacceptable and disgraceful" considering the nature of the deaths. He openly challenged others in his political party to justify the comments.

The Director's Legacy and Views on Trump

Rob Reiner was long a outspoken critic of Donald Trump. During a past interview, he stated Trump was "not psychologically suited" for the presidency. He had also cautioned about the risks of authoritarian rule should Trump be reelected to power.

"We see authoritarianism making its move around the world," Reiner noted. "If we fall, there’s a risk that democratic systems collapse around the world."

Regardless of his strong criticisms, Reiner had in the past shown "absolute horror" and condemned political violence unequivocally following the shooting of a different individual.

A Notable Link: The Art of the Deal

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

Rob Reiner had previously shared the anecdote of the photo shoot, mentioning Trump's request for "special hairspray" while being photographed on a skyscraper overlooking Central Park.