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Individuals from across the political divide and the Hollywood world are uniting to condemn former President Donald Trump for his comments following the shocking passing of acclaimed director Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.

A Provocative Social Media Statement

After the couple were found dead at their Los Angeles home, Trump took to social media to label the deceased director as "tortured and suffering". In a message, he asserted Reiner's demise was "due to the hostility 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 "intense obsession" and "clear paranoia" with what Trump called the "unprecedented era of America".

Police Developments and Arrest

Police have since announced the arrest of the Reiners' 32-year-old son, Nick, on suspicion of murder in connection with the case. It is reported his bond was established at a substantial sum.

A Torrent of Condemnation from Celebrities and Politicians

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

“What a vile and vile statement,” remarked actor Patrick Schwarzenegger.

Television host Whoopi Goldberg, who called Reiner a friend, similarly condemned the remarks. Goldberg pointed to previous comments from Trump regarding the killing of an activist, asking, "Have you no shame? Is it possible to get any lower?"

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

Echoing this view, Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost declared, "He is a contemptible piece of trash."

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

Rebuke from Within Party

A number of Republican lawmakers also expressed dismay.

Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene emphasized that the event was "a family tragedy, not about political feuds or rivals". She also mentioned challenges with substance abuse and psychological well-being within families.

Another GOP representative, Thomas Massie, called Trump's discourse "unacceptable and disgraceful" considering the circumstances. He openly challenged others in his political party to justify the statements.

The Director's Legacy and Stance on Trump

Rob Reiner was long a outspoken critic of Donald Trump. During a previous conversation, he argued Trump was "not psychologically suited" for the office. He had also cautioned about the dangers of authoritarian rule should Trump return to power.

"We see autocracy making its move around the world," Reiner noted. "If we fall, there’s a danger that democratic systems collapse around the world."

Regardless of his strong criticisms, Reiner had in the past shown "absolute horror" and denounced political violence without reservation following the shooting of a different individual.

An Ironic Link: The Art of the Deal

Adding a layer of historical connection, Michele Reiner, formerly 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 shared the story of the session, noting Trump's request for "a specific hair product" as being photographed on a high-rise with a view of Central Park.