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Personalities from both sides of the political aisle and the Hollywood industry are uniting to censure former President Donald Trump for his statements following the shocking passing of renowned director Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.

A Provocative Social Media Statement

After the couple were found dead at their Brentwood residence, Trump took to social media to describe the deceased director as "tortured and struggling". In a message, he claimed Reiner's demise was "because of the hostility he provoked others through his massive, unyielding, and incurable affliction with a debilitating disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".

The post then pivoted to praising his own achievements, juxtaposing Reiner's alleged "raging obsession" and "obvious paranoia" with what Trump described as the "Golden Age of America".

Police Update and Arrest

Authorities have since announced the arrest of the Reiners' adult son, Nick, on suspicion of murder in connection with the case. Reports indicate his bail was set at a substantial amount.

A Wave of Criticism from Celebrities and Politicians

The response to Trump's post was swift and scathing.

This is a disgusting and vile statement,” said actor Patrick Schwarzenegger.

Media personality Whoopi Goldberg, who called Reiner a close acquaintance, also criticized the remarks. Goldberg referenced prior comments from Trump about the killing of an activist, demanding, "Have you no decency? Can you get any lower?"

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

Echoing this view, Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost declared, "What a despicable piece of trash."

Senator Chris Murphy added, "Trump has just crossed a line. Now implying Rob and Michele Reiner caused their own demise because they didn’t support him. So sick."

Criticism from Within Political Ranks

Some GOP lawmakers also expressed dismay.

Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene emphasized that the situation was "a family tragedy, not about politics or rivals". Greene also mentioned challenges with addiction and mental health within families.

Fellow GOP representative, Thomas Massie, called Trump's remarks "inappropriate and disrespectful" considering the circumstances. He openly dared members in his party to justify the statements.

Reiner's History and Stance on Trump

Rob Reiner was consistently a outspoken critic of Donald Trump. In a past interview, he argued Trump was "not psychologically suited" for the presidency. He had also warned about the risks of authoritarian rule should Trump be reelected to power.

"We see autocracy on the rise around the world," Reiner noted. "If we fall, there’s a danger that democracy collapse around the world."

Despite his pointed opposition, Reiner had previously shown "complete revulsion" and denounced political violence without reservation after the shooting of a different individual.

A Notable Link: The Art of the Deal

Adding a layer of historical 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 previously recounted the story of the session, noting Trump's demand for "special hairspray" as posing on a high-rise overlooking Central Park.