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Figures from both sides of the partisan spectrum and the Hollywood world are coming together to condemn former President Donald Trump for his statements following the shocking passing of esteemed director Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.

A Controversial Social Media Statement

Following the discovery of the couple dead at their Los Angeles residence, Trump posted on social media to label the late director as "tortured and struggling". In a message, he asserted Reiner's demise was "due to the anger he caused others through his enormous, relentless, and incurable condition with a debilitating disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".

The post then pivoted to self-praise, juxtaposing Reiner's alleged "raging obsession" and "clear paranoia" with what Trump described as the "Golden Age of America".

Law Enforcement Update and Arrest

Police have since confirmed the detention of the couple's 32-year-old son, Nick, on charges related to murder in relation to the case. Reports indicate his bond was set at a substantial amount.

A Torrent of Condemnation from Public Figures

The reaction to Trump's words was immediate and scathing.

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

Television host Whoopi Goldberg, who called Reiner a close acquaintance, similarly condemned the remarks. She referenced prior rhetoric from Trump about political violence, demanding, "Have you no decency? Is it possible to get any worse?"

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

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

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

Criticism from Within Party

Some GOP lawmakers also voiced disapproval.

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

Another Republican representative, Thomas Massie, called Trump's remarks "inappropriate and disrespectful" given the circumstances. He openly challenged members in his party to justify the comments.

Reiner's Legacy and Views on Trump

Rob Reiner was long a vocal critic of Donald Trump. During a previous interview, he stated Trump was "not psychologically suited" for the office. He had also cautioned about the risks of authoritarian rule should Trump be reelected to power.

"There is authoritarianism on the rise around the world," Reiner said. "Should the United States fall, there’s a danger that democratic systems collapse around the world."

Regardless of his pointed opposition, Reiner had previously shown "complete revulsion" and condemned political violence unequivocally after the killing of a different individual.

A Notable Connection: The Art of the Deal

Providing a element 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 shared the anecdote of the photo shoot, mentioning Trump's request for "special hairspray" while posing on a skyscraper with a view of Central Park.