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Figures from both sides of the political divide and the Hollywood industry are coming together to condemn Donald Trump for his comments in the wake of the shocking passing of esteemed director Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.

An Inflammatory Social Media Post

Following the discovery of the couple deceased at their Los Angeles residence, Trump took to his platform to label the late director as "anguished and struggling". In a message, he asserted Reiner's demise was "because of the anger he provoked others through his massive, relentless, and untreatable condition with a debilitating disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".

The post quickly shifted to self-praise, juxtaposing Reiner's supposed "raging obsession" and "obvious paranoia" with what Trump described as the "unprecedented era of America".

Police Developments and Detention

Police have since confirmed the detention of the Reiners' adult son, Nick, on suspicion of murder in connection with the case. Reports indicate his bail was set at a substantial sum.

A Torrent of Condemnation from Celebrities and Politicians

The reaction to Trump's post was immediate and harsh.

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

Television host Whoopi Goldberg, who called Reiner a friend, similarly criticized the remarks. Goldberg pointed to previous comments from Trump regarding political violence, asking, "Have you no shame? Is it possible to get any worse?"

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

Mirroring this view, US House member Maxwell Alejandro Frost declared, "What a despicable piece of garbage."

Senator Chris Murphy commented, "Trump has just crossed a line. Now saying the Reiners brought on their own demise because they didn’t support him. Deeply disturbing."

Criticism from Within Political Ranks

Some Republican elected officials also voiced dismay.

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

Another Republican representative, Thomas Massie, labeled Trump's remarks "inappropriate and disgraceful" considering the circumstances. He publicly challenged members in his party to defend the comments.

The Director's Legacy and Views on Trump

Rob Reiner was consistently a outspoken critic of Donald Trump. During a previous conversation, he argued 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 on the rise around the world," Reiner noted. "Should the United States crumble, there’s a danger that democratic systems collapse around the world."

Despite his pointed criticisms, Reiner had in the past shown "complete revulsion" and condemned political violence without reservation after the shooting of another individual.

An Ironic Link: The Art of the Deal

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

Rob Reiner had once shared the story of the photo shoot, mentioning Trump's demand for "special hairspray" while posing on a high-rise with a view of Central Park.