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Figures from both sides of the political divide and the Hollywood industry are uniting to denounce Donald Trump for his comments following the tragic deaths of acclaimed filmmaker Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.

A Controversial Social Media Statement

After the couple were found deceased at their Los Angeles home, Trump took to his platform to describe the deceased director as "anguished and suffering". In a post, he claimed Reiner's death was "due to the anger he provoked others through his enormous, unyielding, and untreatable affliction with a debilitating disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".

The post quickly shifted to self-praise, juxtaposing 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 couple's adult son, Nick, on suspicion of murder in connection with the case. Reports indicate his bail was set at a significant sum.

A Torrent of Criticism from Public Figures

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

“What a appalling and vile statement,” said public figure Patrick Schwarzenegger.

Media personality Whoopi Goldberg, who described Reiner a close acquaintance, similarly criticized the remarks. She referenced previous rhetoric from Trump about the killing of an activist, asking, "Have you no shame? Can you get any worse?"

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

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

Senator Chris Murphy commented, "He's just crossed a line. Now implying Rob and Michele Reiner caused their own murder because they opposed him. So sick."

Criticism from Within Political Ranks

Some GOP lawmakers also voiced dismay.

Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene emphasized that the situation was "a family tragedy, not about politics or political enemies". She also alluded to struggles with substance abuse and mental health within families.

Fellow Republican congressman, Thomas Massie, labeled Trump's discourse "inappropriate and disrespectful" given the circumstances. He openly challenged members in his party to justify the statements.

Reiner's Legacy and Stance 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 office. He had also cautioned about the risks of authoritarian rule should Trump return to power.

"There is autocracy making its move around the world," Reiner said. "If we crumble, there’s a risk that democracy collapse around the world."

Despite his strong criticisms, Reiner had in the past shown "absolute horror" and denounced violence for political ends unequivocally after the shooting of another individual.

A Notable Link: The Art of the Deal

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

Rob Reiner had previously shared the anecdote of the photo shoot, mentioning Trump's request for "a specific hair product" as posing on a high-rise with a view of Central Park.