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Personalities from across the political spectrum and the Hollywood industry are coming together to condemn Donald Trump for his statements in the wake of the tragic deaths of acclaimed filmmaker Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.

A Controversial Social Media Post

Following the discovery of the couple deceased at their Los Angeles home, Trump posted on social media to label the late director as "anguished and suffering". In a message, he asserted Reiner's demise was "because of the hostility he provoked others through his massive, unyielding, and untreatable condition with a debilitating disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".

His comments quickly shifted to praising his own achievements, contrasting Reiner's alleged "intense obsession" and "clear paranoia" with what Trump called the "unprecedented era of America".

Police Developments and Arrest

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

A Torrent of Condemnation from Celebrities and Politicians

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

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

Television host Whoopi Goldberg, who called Reiner a close acquaintance, similarly criticized the statements. Goldberg referenced prior rhetoric from Trump about the killing of an activist, demanding, "Have you no shame? Can you get any worse?"

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

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

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

Rebuke from Within Party

A number of GOP lawmakers also voiced disapproval.

Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene stated that the event was "a family tragedy, not about politics or rivals". She also mentioned challenges with addiction and mental health some families face.

Fellow GOP congressman, Thomas Massie, called Trump's remarks "inappropriate and disrespectful" given the nature of the deaths. He openly challenged others in his party to defend the statements.

The Director's History and Stance on Trump

Rob Reiner was consistently a outspoken critic of Donald Trump. During a previous conversation, he argued Trump was "mentally unfit" for the presidency. He had also warned about the dangers of authoritarian rule should Trump be reelected to power.

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

Regardless of his pointed opposition, Reiner had previously expressed "absolute horror" and denounced violence for political ends without reservation after the killing of another political figure.

A Notable Link: The Art of the Deal

Adding a element of historical connection, Michele Reiner, previously Michele Singer, was the photographer who captured the cover image for Donald Trump's 1987 book, The Art of the Deal.

Rob Reiner had previously recounted the anecdote of the session, noting Trump's request for "a specific hair product" as posing on a high-rise with a view of Central Park.