In the statement, McCain wrote: "In recent days, Donald Trump disparaged a fallen soldier's parents. He has suggested that the likes of their son should not be allowed in the United States -- to say nothing of entering its service. I cannot emphasize enough how deeply I disagree with Mr. Trump's statement. I hope Americans understand that the remarks do not represent the views of our Republican Party, its officers, or candidates.

Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-South Carolina, saying in a statement, "There used to be some things that were sacred in American politics -- that you don't do -- like criticizing the parents of a fallen soldier even if they criticize you."

"This is so incredibly disrespectful of a family that endured the ultimate sacrifice for our country," Jeb Bush, a Trump rival in the 2016 GOP primary, said on Twitter Sunday evening.