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Figures from across the partisan divide and the entertainment world are uniting to censure former President Donald Trump for his statements following the tragic deaths of renowned director Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.

An Inflammatory Social Media Statement

After the couple were found dead at their Brentwood home, Trump took to social media to describe the late director as "anguished and struggling". The post, he claimed Reiner's demise was "due to the anger he caused others through his massive, relentless, and incurable affliction with a debilitating 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 called the "unprecedented era of America".

Law Enforcement Update and Arrest

Police have since announced the arrest of the Reiners' adult son, Nick, on suspicion of homicide in connection with the case. It is reported his bond was established at a significant amount.

A Torrent of Condemnation from Celebrities and Politicians

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

This is a disgusting and despicable statement,” said actor Patrick Schwarzenegger.

Media personality Whoopi Goldberg, who called Reiner a close acquaintance, also condemned the remarks. Goldberg referenced previous comments from Trump regarding political violence, asking, "Have you no shame? Can you get any lower?"

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

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

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

Rebuke from Within Political Ranks

A number of Republican elected officials also expressed dismay.

Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene emphasized that the situation was "a family tragedy, not about politics or political enemies". Greene also mentioned challenges with addiction and psychological well-being some families face.

Another Republican representative, Thomas Massie, labeled Trump's remarks "inappropriate and disrespectful" given the circumstances. He openly dared others in his political party to defend the statements.

Reiner's History and Views on Trump

Rob Reiner was consistently a outspoken detractor of Donald Trump. In a past interview, he stated Trump was "not psychologically suited" for the presidency. He had also warned about the dangers of authoritarian rule if Trump return to power.

"There is autocracy making its move around the world," Reiner noted. "If we fall, there’s a risk that democratic systems collapse around the world."

Despite his strong opposition, Reiner had in the past expressed "complete revulsion" and denounced political violence unequivocally following the killing of a different individual.

A Notable Connection: The Art of the Deal

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

Rob Reiner had once recounted the anecdote of the photo shoot, mentioning Trump's demand for "special hairspray" as posing on a high-rise overlooking Central Park.