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Individuals from across the partisan aisle and the Hollywood industry are uniting to censure former President Donald Trump for his statements following the shocking passing of acclaimed director Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.

A Controversial Social Media Statement

After the couple were found dead at their Los Angeles residence, Trump took to social media to label the deceased director as "tortured and suffering". In a post, he asserted Reiner's death was "because of the hostility he caused others through his massive, relentless, and untreatable condition with a debilitating disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".

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

Law Enforcement Developments and Detention

Police have since announced the detention of the Reiners' adult son, Nick, on suspicion of homicide in relation to the incident. It is reported his bail was established at a substantial sum.

A Torrent of Condemnation from Celebrities and Politicians

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

This is a vile and vile statement,” remarked public figure Patrick Schwarzenegger.

Media personality Whoopi Goldberg, who described Reiner a friend, similarly criticized the remarks. She referenced previous rhetoric from Trump regarding political violence, asking, "Have you no decency? Is it possible to get any worse?"

California's Governor, Gavin Newsom, simply stated, "This is a sick man."

Mirroring this sentiment, US House member Maxwell Alejandro Frost said, "He is a despicable piece of trash."

Senator Chris Murphy added, "He's just crossed a line. Now saying Rob and Michele Reiner brought on their own murder because they opposed him. Deeply disturbing."

Criticism from Within Party

A number of Republican elected officials also voiced disapproval.

Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene stated that the situation was "a personal tragedy, not about politics or rivals". She also mentioned struggles with substance abuse and mental health within families.

Fellow GOP congressman, Thomas Massie, called Trump's remarks "inappropriate and disgraceful" considering the circumstances. He openly challenged members in his party to justify the statements.

Reiner's Legacy and Views on Trump

Rob Reiner was long a outspoken detractor of Donald Trump. During a past interview, he stated Trump was "not psychologically suited" for the office. He had also cautioned about the risks of autocracy if Trump be reelected to power.

"We see authoritarianism making its move around the world," Reiner noted. "Should the United States crumble, there’s a risk that democratic systems crumble around the world."

Despite his strong criticisms, Reiner had previously shown "complete revulsion" and denounced political violence without reservation following the shooting of a different individual.

A Notable Link: The Art of the Deal

Providing a layer of historical irony, 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, mentioning Trump's request for "special hairspray" while being photographed on a high-rise overlooking Central Park.