In a move that sent shockwaves through the political landscape, former California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger took to Twitter on Wednesday night to voice his political views and announce his support for Democratic candidates Kamala Harris and Tim Walz. The action star turned politician, known for his independent spirit, articulated his frustration with both major political parties and the current state of American politics.
Schwarzenegger, while known for his aversion to traditional political endorsements, declared that he couldn’t stay silent any longer. He stated, “I don’t really do endorsements. I’m not shy about sharing my views, but I hate politics and don’t trust most politicians.” However, the gravity of the current election, he explained, demanded his voice be heard. He emphasized his unique position as a former Republican governor, highlighting his accomplishments in environmental policy, job creation, and infrastructure investment during his time in office. Despite these successes, he expressed profound disappointment in the lack of progress on crucial issues such as the national debt and immigration reform.
Schwarzenegger’s criticism extended to both sides of the political aisle, expressing his disillusionment with the current state of affairs: “I don’t like either party right now.” He chastised Republicans for abandoning free-market principles and Democrats for failing to address deficits and rising crime rates in cities. He lamented, “I want to tune out. But I can’t,” underscoring the importance of civic engagement in a democracy.
The former governor condemned the divisive rhetoric surrounding the election, labeling it un-American. He condemned the practice of rejecting election results and the derogatory remarks directed at the United States. “To someone like me who talks to people all over the world and still knows America is the shining city on a hill, calling America a trash can for the world is so unpatriotic, it makes me furious,” he declared.
While acknowledging his disagreements with the Harris and Walz platforms, Schwarzenegger urged voters to reject divisive politics and embrace a new chapter. He argued that a Trump presidency would only exacerbate the existing anger and division within the country. “We need to close the door on this chapter of American history,” he asserted.
In a scathing critique of President Trump, Schwarzenegger declared, “It will just be four more years of bullshit with no results that makes us angrier and angrier, more divided, and more hateful.” He reiterated, “We need to close the door on this chapter of American history, and I know that former President Trump won’t do that. He will divide, he will insult, he will find new ways to be more un-American than he already has been, and we, the people, will get nothing but more anger.”
Schwarzenegger concluded his message by urging Americans to participate in the electoral process, regardless of their political leanings. “Even if you disagree with me, vote, because that’s what we do as Americans,” he said. This endorsement from Schwarzenegger, a prominent figure in American pop culture and politics, marks a significant moment in the election cycle. His words highlight the discontent among those feeling alienated by the current political discourse and offer a potential avenue for a more united future.