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Individuals from both sides of the political spectrum and the Hollywood industry are coming together to censure Donald Trump for his statements in the wake of the tragic deaths of esteemed director Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.

A Provocative Social Media Post

Following the discovery of the couple deceased at their Los Angeles residence, Trump posted on his platform to label the late director as "anguished and struggling". In a post, he asserted Reiner's demise was "because of the hostility he provoked others through his enormous, unyielding, and untreatable affliction with a mind-crippling disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".

The post then pivoted to self-praise, juxtaposing Reiner's alleged "raging obsession" and "clear paranoia" with what Trump described as the "unprecedented era of America".

Law Enforcement Update and Detention

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

A Wave of Condemnation from Celebrities and Politicians

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

“What a disgusting and despicable comment,” said actor Patrick Schwarzenegger.

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

California's Governor, Gavin Newsom, succinctly stated, "This 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 demise because they opposed him. So sick."

Criticism from Within Party

A number of Republican elected officials also voiced dismay.

Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene stated that the situation was "a personal tragedy, not about politics or political enemies". She also mentioned struggles with substance abuse and mental health some families face.

Fellow GOP congressman, Thomas Massie, called Trump's remarks "inappropriate and disrespectful" considering the nature of the deaths. He openly challenged members in his party to justify the statements.

Reiner's History and Stance on Trump

Rob Reiner was long a vocal detractor of Donald Trump. During a previous interview, he argued Trump was "not psychologically suited" for the office. He had also cautioned about the dangers of autocracy if Trump return to power.

"We see autocracy making its move around the world," Reiner said. "Should the United States fall, there’s a risk that democratic systems crumble around the world."

Despite his strong opposition, Reiner had in the past shown "absolute horror" and condemned political violence without reservation after the killing of a different individual.

An Ironic Connection: The Art of the Deal

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

Rob Reiner had previously recounted the story of the photo shoot, mentioning Trump's request for "special hairspray" as posing on a skyscraper overlooking Central Park.