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Figures from both sides of the political spectrum and the entertainment industry are uniting to condemn Donald Trump for his comments following the shocking deaths of esteemed filmmaker Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.

An Inflammatory Online Statement

Following the discovery of the couple dead at their Los Angeles home, Trump took to social media to describe the late director as "tortured and struggling". In a post, he asserted Reiner's demise was "because of the hostility he caused others through his enormous, relentless, and incurable affliction with a mind-crippling disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".

His comments then pivoted to self-praise, contrasting Reiner's alleged "intense obsession" and "clear 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 relation to the incident. It is reported his bond was set at a substantial sum.

A Torrent of Criticism from Celebrities and Politicians

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

This is a appalling and despicable comment,” said public figure Patrick Schwarzenegger.

Television host Whoopi Goldberg, who described Reiner a friend, similarly criticized the statements. Goldberg referenced previous rhetoric from Trump about the killing of an activist, asking, "Do you have no shame? Is it possible to get any lower?"

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

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

Senator Chris Murphy added, "He's just lost it. Now saying the Reiners caused their own murder because they opposed him. So sick."

Rebuke from Within Party

A number of GOP elected officials also expressed dismay.

Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene stated that the event was "a personal tragedy, not about politics or political enemies". Greene also alluded to struggles with substance abuse and psychological well-being within families.

Another GOP representative, Thomas Massie, labeled Trump's remarks "inappropriate and disgraceful" given the circumstances. He openly challenged others in his political party to defend the comments.

The Director's History and Stance on Trump

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

"There is autocracy making its move around the world," Reiner said. "If we fall, there’s a danger that democratic systems collapse around the world."

Regardless of his strong opposition, Reiner had in the past expressed "complete revulsion" and denounced political violence without reservation after the shooting of another political figure.

A Notable Connection: The Art of the Deal

Providing a element of past connection, Michele Reiner, formerly Michele Singer, was the photographer who captured the cover image for Donald Trump's 1987 book, The Art of the Deal.

Rob Reiner had previously recounted the story of the session, mentioning Trump's demand for "a specific hair product" while being photographed on a high-rise overlooking Central Park.