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Personalities from both sides of the political divide and the entertainment world are coming together to censure Donald Trump for his comments in the wake of the shocking passing of renowned filmmaker Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.

An Inflammatory Online Post

After the couple were found dead at their Los Angeles residence, Trump took to his platform to describe the late director as "tortured and struggling". The post, he claimed Reiner's death was "due to the hostility he provoked others through his massive, relentless, and untreatable affliction with a debilitating disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".

His comments then pivoted to self-praise, juxtaposing Reiner's alleged "intense obsession" and "clear paranoia" with what Trump described as the "Golden Age of America".

Law Enforcement Developments and Arrest

Authorities have since confirmed the detention of the Reiners' 32-year-old son, Nick, on suspicion of murder in relation to the incident. It is reported his bail was established at a significant sum.

A Torrent of Criticism from Celebrities and Politicians

The response to Trump's words was immediate and scathing.

“What a appalling and despicable statement,” remarked public figure Patrick Schwarzenegger.

Television host Whoopi Goldberg, who called Reiner a close acquaintance, similarly condemned the statements. She referenced previous comments from Trump regarding the killing of an activist, demanding, "Have you no decency? Is it possible to get any worse?"

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

Echoing this view, US House member Maxwell Alejandro Frost declared, "What a contemptible piece of trash."

Senator Chris Murphy commented, "Trump has just crossed a line. Now implying Rob and Michele Reiner caused their own demise because they opposed him. Deeply disturbing."

Criticism from His Own Party

Some Republican lawmakers also voiced disapproval.

Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene emphasized that the event was "a personal tragedy, not about political feuds or political enemies". She also mentioned struggles with addiction and psychological well-being some families face.

Fellow Republican congressman, Thomas Massie, labeled Trump's remarks "unacceptable and disrespectful" given the nature of the deaths. He publicly dared members in his political party to justify the comments.

Reiner's Legacy and Stance on Trump

Rob Reiner was consistently a vocal detractor of Donald Trump. During a past conversation, he stated Trump was "mentally unfit" for the presidency. He had also cautioned about the dangers of autocracy should Trump return to power.

"There is authoritarianism on the rise around the world," Reiner said. "If we crumble, there’s a danger that democracy collapse around the world."

Despite his pointed opposition, Reiner had in the past expressed "complete revulsion" and condemned violence for political ends unequivocally following the shooting of a different individual.

An Ironic Connection: The Art of the Deal

Providing a layer of historical irony, Michele Reiner, previously Michele Singer, was the artist who shot the cover image for Donald Trump's 1987 book, The Art of the Deal.

Rob Reiner had previously recounted the anecdote of the session, noting Trump's demand for "special hairspray" while being photographed on a skyscraper with a view of Central Park.