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Individuals from across the political aisle and the Hollywood world are coming together to condemn former President Donald Trump for his comments in the wake of the tragic passing of acclaimed filmmaker Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.

A Controversial Social Media Statement

Following the discovery of the couple dead at their Los Angeles home, Trump posted on social media to describe the deceased director as "anguished and struggling". The message, he asserted 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".

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

Law Enforcement Developments and Detention

Police have since confirmed the detention of the Reiners' adult son, Nick, on suspicion of murder in connection with the incident. It is reported his bond was established at a substantial sum.

A Torrent of Condemnation from Public Figures

The response to Trump's post was immediate and harsh.

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

Media personality Whoopi Goldberg, who called Reiner a friend, similarly criticized the remarks. Goldberg referenced prior comments from Trump about the killing of an activist, asking, "Have you no shame? Is it possible to get any lower?"

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

Mirroring this view, US House member Maxwell Alejandro Frost declared, "What a despicable piece of garbage."

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

Rebuke from His Own Party

A number of Republican lawmakers also voiced disapproval.

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

Fellow GOP congressman, Thomas Massie, labeled Trump's remarks "inappropriate and disgraceful" given the nature of the deaths. He openly dared members in his party to justify the comments.

The Director's History and Stance on Trump

Rob Reiner was consistently a vocal detractor of Donald Trump. During a past interview, he argued Trump was "not psychologically suited" for the office. He had also cautioned about the dangers of authoritarian rule if Trump be reelected to power.

"We see authoritarianism on the rise around the world," Reiner said. "Should the United States fall, there’s a risk that democracy crumble around the world."

Despite his pointed opposition, Reiner had in the past shown "complete revulsion" and condemned political violence without reservation following the shooting of another political figure.

An Ironic Connection: The Art of the Deal

Providing a layer of past connection, Michele Reiner, formerly Michele Singer, was the photographer who shot the photograph for Donald Trump's 1987 book, The Art of the Deal.

Rob Reiner had once recounted the story of the session, noting Trump's request for "special hairspray" while being photographed on a high-rise overlooking Central Park.