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Individuals from across the political aisle and the Hollywood world are uniting to denounce former President Donald Trump for his comments in the wake of the shocking passing of renowned filmmaker Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.

A Provocative Online Post

Following the discovery of the couple deceased at their Brentwood home, Trump took to his platform to describe the late director as "anguished and suffering". The post, he asserted Reiner's death was "due to the anger he caused others through his massive, unyielding, and incurable condition with a debilitating disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".

His comments then pivoted to praising his own achievements, contrasting Reiner's alleged "raging obsession" and "obvious paranoia" with what Trump described as the "unprecedented era of America".

Police Update and Arrest

Authorities have since announced the arrest of the couple's adult son, Nick, on suspicion of homicide in connection with the incident. It is reported his bond was established at a significant sum.

A Torrent of Criticism from Celebrities and Politicians

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

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

Television host Whoopi Goldberg, who described Reiner a friend, similarly criticized the remarks. She pointed to previous rhetoric from Trump about the killing of an activist, asking, "Have you no decency? Is it possible to get any worse?"

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

Echoing this view, Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost said, "What a contemptible piece of garbage."

Senator Chris Murphy commented, "Trump has just crossed a line. Now saying Rob and Michele Reiner brought on their own murder because they didn’t support him. Deeply disturbing."

Criticism from Within Party

A number of GOP lawmakers also voiced dismay.

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

Fellow Republican representative, Thomas Massie, labeled Trump's discourse "unacceptable and disrespectful" given the circumstances. He openly challenged others in his party to defend the statements.

Reiner's Legacy and Stance on Trump

Rob Reiner was long a outspoken detractor of Donald Trump. In a past interview, he stated Trump was "mentally unfit" for the presidency. He had also warned about the risks of autocracy if Trump return to power.

"We see autocracy making its move around the world," Reiner said. "If we crumble, there’s a risk that democracy collapse around the world."

Regardless of his strong criticisms, Reiner had previously expressed "absolute horror" and denounced violence for political ends without reservation following the killing of another political figure.

A Notable 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 once shared the anecdote of the session, noting Trump's demand for "a specific hair product" as posing on a skyscraper overlooking Central Park.