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Individuals from both sides of the partisan aisle and the entertainment world are coming together to denounce former President Donald Trump for his comments in the wake of the shocking passing of acclaimed director Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.

A Provocative Social Media Post

After the couple were found dead at their Brentwood residence, Trump took to his platform to describe the deceased director as "tortured and struggling". The post, he asserted Reiner's demise was "due to the anger he provoked others through his massive, unyielding, and incurable affliction with a mind-crippling disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".

The post then pivoted to praising his own achievements, contrasting Reiner's alleged "raging obsession" and "clear paranoia" with what Trump called the "unprecedented era of America".

Law Enforcement Developments and Arrest

Police have since confirmed the arrest of the couple's adult son, Nick, on suspicion of homicide in connection with the incident. Reports indicate his bond was established at a substantial amount.

A Torrent of Condemnation from Celebrities and Politicians

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

“What a vile and vile statement,” remarked public figure Patrick Schwarzenegger.

Media personality Whoopi Goldberg, who called Reiner a close acquaintance, also criticized the remarks. Goldberg referenced previous rhetoric from Trump about the killing of an activist, demanding, "Have you no decency? Is it possible to get any worse?"

California's Governor, Gavin Newsom, succinctly stated, "This is a disturbed man."

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

Senator Chris Murphy added, "He's just lost it. Now saying Rob and Michele Reiner caused their own murder because they opposed him. So sick."

Rebuke from His Own Political Ranks

Some Republican elected officials also voiced disapproval.

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

Another Republican representative, Thomas Massie, called Trump's remarks "unacceptable and disrespectful" given the circumstances. He openly dared others in his party to defend the comments.

The Director's Legacy and Stance on Trump

Rob Reiner was long a outspoken critic of Donald Trump. During a past conversation, he stated Trump was "not psychologically suited" for the office. He had also cautioned about the risks of autocracy if Trump return to power.

"There is autocracy on the rise around the world," Reiner said. "If we fall, there’s a danger that democratic systems collapse around the world."

Despite his strong criticisms, Reiner had in the past expressed "absolute horror" and condemned political violence without reservation following the killing of another political figure.

A Notable Connection: The Art of the Deal

Adding a layer of historical connection, Michele Reiner, formerly Michele Singer, was the photographer who shot the photograph for Donald Trump's 1987 book, The Art of the Deal.

Rob Reiner had previously recounted the anecdote of the session, mentioning Trump's request for "a specific hair product" as posing on a high-rise with a view of Central Park.