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Figures from across the political divide and the Hollywood world are uniting to censure Donald Trump for his remarks in the wake of the tragic deaths of esteemed director Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.

An Inflammatory Social Media Post

After the couple were found deceased at their Brentwood residence, Trump posted on social media to label the late director as "tortured and struggling". In a post, he claimed Reiner's death was "due to the anger he caused others through his massive, relentless, and untreatable affliction with a debilitating disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".

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

Police Update and Arrest

Police have since confirmed the arrest of the couple's 32-year-old son, Nick, on suspicion of murder in relation to the incident. Reports indicate his bond was set at a significant amount.

A Torrent of Condemnation from Public Figures

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

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

Television host Whoopi Goldberg, who called Reiner a friend, also criticized the remarks. Goldberg pointed to previous rhetoric from Trump regarding the killing of an activist, demanding, "Have you no decency? Is it possible to get any lower?"

The state of California's Governor, Gavin Newsom, succinctly wrote, "This is a disturbed man."

Mirroring this sentiment, Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost declared, "He is a despicable piece of garbage."

Senator Chris Murphy commented, "He's just crossed a line. Now saying the Reiners brought on their own demise because they opposed him. So sick."

Criticism from His Own Political Ranks

Some Republican lawmakers also expressed disapproval.

Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene stated that the event was "a personal tragedy, not about politics or political enemies". Greene also mentioned challenges with addiction and mental health some families face.

Another GOP congressman, Thomas Massie, called Trump's remarks "unacceptable and disrespectful" given the nature of the deaths. He publicly dared members in his political party to defend the comments.

Reiner's History and Views on Trump

Rob Reiner was long a outspoken critic of Donald Trump. In a previous conversation, he stated Trump was "mentally unfit" for the office. He had also warned about the dangers of autocracy should Trump return to power.

"There is autocracy making its move around the world," Reiner noted. "Should the United States fall, there’s a danger that democratic systems crumble around the world."

Despite his pointed criticisms, Reiner had in the past shown "absolute horror" and denounced violence for political ends unequivocally following the shooting of another individual.

A Notable Connection: The Art of the Deal

Adding 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 recounted the story of the session, noting Trump's request for "special hairspray" as being photographed on a skyscraper overlooking Central Park.