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Personalities from across the political spectrum and the entertainment world are uniting to censure Donald Trump for his statements in the wake of the shocking passing of esteemed filmmaker Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.

A Provocative Online Post

Following the discovery of the couple deceased at their Brentwood residence, Trump posted on social media to describe the late director as "tortured and suffering". The message, he asserted Reiner's death was "because of the anger he provoked others through his enormous, unyielding, and incurable affliction with a mind-crippling disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".

His comments then pivoted to self-praise, juxtaposing Reiner's supposed "intense obsession" and "obvious paranoia" with what Trump described as the "Golden Age of America".

Police Update and Detention

Police have since confirmed the detention of the couple's adult son, Nick, on suspicion of murder in relation to the case. Reports indicate his bond was established at a substantial sum.

A Wave of Condemnation from Celebrities and Politicians

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

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

Television host Whoopi Goldberg, who called Reiner a close acquaintance, similarly criticized the statements. She referenced previous rhetoric from Trump regarding the killing of an activist, asking, "Have you no shame? Is it possible to get any lower?"

The state of California's Democratic governor, Gavin Newsom, succinctly wrote, "This is a disturbed man."

Echoing this view, US House member Maxwell Alejandro Frost said, "He is a despicable piece of garbage."

Senator Chris Murphy commented, "Trump has just lost it. Now implying the Reiners caused their own demise because they opposed him. So sick."

Criticism from His Own Political Ranks

Some Republican elected officials also expressed dismay.

Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene emphasized that the event was "a family tragedy, not about politics or rivals". Greene also alluded to challenges with substance abuse and psychological well-being within families.

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

The Director's Legacy and Stance on Trump

Rob Reiner was long a vocal critic of Donald Trump. During a previous interview, he argued Trump was "mentally unfit" for the office. He had also cautioned about the dangers of authoritarian rule if Trump return to power.

"We see authoritarianism on the rise around the world," Reiner noted. "Should the United States crumble, there’s a risk that democracy collapse around the world."

Regardless of his strong criticisms, Reiner had in the past expressed "complete revulsion" and denounced political violence unequivocally following the shooting of a different political figure.

A Notable Link: The Art of the Deal

Adding a layer of historical connection, Michele Reiner, formerly Michele Singer, was the photographer who captured the photograph for Donald Trump's iconic book, The Art of the Deal.

Rob Reiner had previously shared the anecdote of the session, noting Trump's demand for "a specific hair product" while being photographed on a skyscraper overlooking Central Park.