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Figures from both sides of the partisan divide and the entertainment industry are coming together to censure Donald Trump for his statements in the wake of the shocking deaths of esteemed director Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.

A Provocative Online Post

After the couple were found dead at their Brentwood home, Trump posted on social media to label the late director as "anguished and suffering". In a post, he claimed Reiner's death was "because of the anger he provoked others through his enormous, relentless, and untreatable condition with a mind-crippling 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 described as the "unprecedented era of America".

Law Enforcement Developments and Detention

Police have since confirmed the detention of the Reiners' 32-year-old son, Nick, on suspicion of homicide in relation to the incident. Reports indicate his bond was established at a substantial amount.

A Wave of Criticism from Celebrities and Politicians

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

“What a vile and despicable comment,” said actor Patrick Schwarzenegger.

Television host Whoopi Goldberg, who described Reiner a friend, similarly condemned the remarks. She pointed to prior comments from Trump regarding the killing of an activist, demanding, "Do you have no decency? Can you get any lower?"

California's Governor, Gavin Newsom, succinctly stated, "This is a disturbed man."

Echoing this view, US House member Maxwell Alejandro Frost said, "What a contemptible piece of trash."

Senator Chris Murphy added, "He's just crossed a line. Now implying the Reiners caused their own demise because they opposed him. So sick."

Criticism from His Own Party

A number of GOP lawmakers also voiced dismay.

Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene stated that the event was "a personal tragedy, not about political feuds or rivals". Greene also mentioned challenges with substance abuse and psychological well-being some families face.

Fellow Republican congressman, Thomas Massie, called Trump's remarks "inappropriate and disgraceful" considering the nature of the deaths. He openly dared members in his political party to justify the comments.

Reiner's Legacy and Stance on Trump

Rob Reiner was long a outspoken detractor of Donald Trump. During a previous conversation, he stated Trump was "not psychologically suited" for the presidency. He had also warned about the dangers of authoritarian rule should Trump be reelected to power.

"We see authoritarianism on the rise around the world," Reiner said. "If we crumble, there’s a risk that democratic systems crumble around the world."

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

An Ironic Connection: The Art of the Deal

Adding a element of past irony, Michele Reiner, formerly Michele Singer, was the artist who shot the photograph for Donald Trump's iconic book, The Art of the Deal.

Rob Reiner had previously shared the story of the session, mentioning Trump's demand for "special hairspray" while posing on a skyscraper with a view of Central Park.