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Individuals from across the political aisle and the entertainment world are uniting to denounce former President Donald Trump for his statements in the wake of the tragic deaths of esteemed filmmaker Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.

A Provocative Online Post

After the couple were found dead at their Los Angeles residence, Trump posted on social media to label the deceased director as "tortured and suffering". In a message, he asserted Reiner's death was "because of the anger he caused others through his enormous, relentless, and incurable condition with a mind-crippling disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".

The post then pivoted to praising his own achievements, juxtaposing Reiner's alleged "raging obsession" and "clear paranoia" with what Trump described as the "Golden Age of America".

Law Enforcement Update and Arrest

Police have since confirmed the arrest of the Reiners' 32-year-old son, Nick, on suspicion of murder in connection with the incident. It is reported his bail was established at a substantial amount.

A Torrent of Criticism from Public Figures

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

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

Media personality Whoopi Goldberg, who described Reiner a friend, also criticized the statements. Goldberg pointed to prior rhetoric from Trump regarding the killing of an activist, asking, "Do you have no decency? Is it possible to get any worse?"

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

Mirroring this sentiment, Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost declared, "What a contemptible piece of trash."

Senator Chris Murphy commented, "Trump has just lost it. Now implying Rob and Michele Reiner brought on their own demise because they opposed him. So sick."

Rebuke from Within Party

Some Republican lawmakers also voiced disapproval.

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

Fellow Republican representative, Thomas Massie, called Trump's remarks "unacceptable and disgraceful" given the circumstances. He openly challenged others in his political party to defend the comments.

Reiner's History and Stance on Trump

Rob Reiner was consistently a outspoken detractor of Donald Trump. During a previous conversation, he stated Trump was "not psychologically suited" for the office. He had also cautioned about the risks of authoritarian rule if Trump return to power.

"There is authoritarianism making its move around the world," Reiner noted. "If we crumble, there’s a danger that democratic systems crumble around the world."

Despite his pointed opposition, Reiner had previously shown "absolute horror" and condemned violence for political ends without reservation following the shooting of a different political figure.

A Notable Connection: The Art of the Deal

Providing a layer of historical connection, Michele Reiner, formerly Michele Singer, was the photographer who captured the cover image for Donald Trump's iconic book, The Art of the Deal.

Rob Reiner had previously shared the story of the photo shoot, mentioning Trump's demand for "a specific hair product" while being photographed on a high-rise with a view of Central Park.