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Individuals from both sides of the partisan aisle and the Hollywood world are coming together to censure Donald Trump for his comments following the shocking passing of renowned director Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.

A Controversial Online Statement

Following the discovery of the couple deceased at their Los Angeles home, Trump took to social media to label the late director as "anguished and suffering". In a message, he asserted Reiner's demise was "because of the hostility he provoked others through his enormous, 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 supposed "raging obsession" and "clear paranoia" with what Trump described as the "unprecedented era of America".

Police Developments and Detention

Authorities have since confirmed the arrest of the Reiners' 32-year-old son, Nick, on suspicion of homicide in connection with the incident. Reports indicate his bail was set at a significant amount.

A Torrent of Criticism from Celebrities and Politicians

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

“What a appalling and despicable comment,” said public figure Patrick Schwarzenegger.

Television host Whoopi Goldberg, who described Reiner a close acquaintance, similarly condemned the statements. She pointed to previous comments from Trump about political violence, asking, "Do you have no decency? Can you get any lower?"

California's Governor, Gavin Newsom, succinctly wrote, "This is a sick man."

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

Senator Chris Murphy added, "Trump has just lost it. Now saying the Reiners caused their own demise because they opposed him. So sick."

Criticism from Within Party

Some Republican lawmakers also voiced dismay.

Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene emphasized 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.

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

The Director's History and Stance on Trump

Rob Reiner was long a outspoken critic of Donald Trump. During a past interview, he argued Trump was "not psychologically suited" for the office. He had also warned about the risks of autocracy if Trump be reelected to power.

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

Despite his pointed opposition, Reiner had previously shown "complete revulsion" and denounced violence for political ends unequivocally following the killing of another individual.

A Notable Link: The Art of the Deal

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

Rob Reiner had once shared the anecdote of the photo shoot, noting Trump's demand for "special hairspray" while being photographed on a skyscraper with a view of Central Park.