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Figures from both sides of the political spectrum and the Hollywood world are coming together to censure former President Donald Trump for his remarks following the tragic deaths of acclaimed filmmaker Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.

A Provocative Online Post

Following the discovery of the couple dead at their Los Angeles residence, Trump posted on social media to label the deceased director as "tortured and struggling". The message, he claimed Reiner's demise was "because of the hostility he provoked others through his enormous, unyielding, and untreatable condition with a mind-crippling disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".

The post quickly shifted to self-praise, 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 detention of the Reiners' 32-year-old son, Nick, on charges related to murder in relation to the incident. Reports indicate his bond was established at a significant amount.

A Torrent of Criticism from Celebrities and Politicians

The response to Trump's words was swift and scathing.

This is a disgusting and vile statement,” remarked public figure Patrick Schwarzenegger.

Television host Whoopi Goldberg, who described Reiner a close acquaintance, similarly condemned the remarks. Goldberg referenced previous rhetoric from Trump about the killing of an activist, asking, "Have you no decency? Can you get any lower?"

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

Echoing this view, Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost declared, "What a contemptible piece of trash."

Senator Chris Murphy added, "He's just crossed a line. Now implying the Reiners caused their own demise because they opposed him. So sick."

Criticism from Within Party

Some GOP lawmakers also expressed dismay.

Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene stated that the situation was "a family tragedy, not about political feuds or political enemies". She also mentioned struggles with substance abuse and psychological well-being some families face.

Fellow GOP congressman, Thomas Massie, called Trump's remarks "unacceptable and disgraceful" considering the nature of the deaths. He publicly challenged others in his political party to justify the statements.

The Director's Legacy and Views on Trump

Rob Reiner was consistently a vocal critic of Donald Trump. During a previous interview, he argued Trump was "mentally unfit" for the presidency. He had also warned about the risks of authoritarian rule should Trump be reelected to power.

"There is authoritarianism on the rise around the world," Reiner said. "Should the United States crumble, there’s a danger that democratic systems crumble around the world."

Regardless of his pointed opposition, Reiner had in the past expressed "absolute horror" and condemned violence for political ends without reservation following the killing of another individual.

A Notable Link: The Art of the Deal

Providing a element of past connection, Michele Reiner, formerly Michele Singer, was the photographer who shot the cover image for Donald Trump's iconic book, The Art of the Deal.

Rob Reiner had previously shared the story of the photo shoot, noting Trump's demand for "special hairspray" as being photographed on a high-rise with a view of Central Park.