Arnold Schwarzenegger, well-known for his role in Terminator and his tenure as California’s Republican governor, announced his endorsement of Democratic candidate Kamala Harris on Wednesday. He called it a necessary step to move past the divisive era marked by Donald Trump.
At 77, Schwarzenegger expressed discontent with both political parties but singled out Trump’s remarks, in which he described the United States as “a trash can for the world.” Such language, Schwarzenegger stated, left him outraged.
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With the November 5 election fast approaching, Schwarzenegger joins a growing list of notable former Republican figures, including ex-Vice President Dick Cheney, former Wyoming Rep. Liz Cheney, and top George W. Bush, Ronald Reagan, and John McCain officials who have crossed party lines to support the Democratic ticket.
Putting patriotism above party, Arnold Schwarzenegger declared his decision on X in a lengthy post, part of which said:
"And I will always be an American before I am a Republican. That’s why, this week, I am voting for Kamala Harris and Tim Walz."
In his post, he criticizes Republicans for abandoning principles like free markets and fiscal responsibility while also expressing concern that Democrats aren’t addressing deficits or crime effectively.
He’s particularly critical of Donald Trump, accusing him of self-interest, divisiveness, and actions that undermine American values. He wrote:
"Let me be honest with you: I don’t like either party right now. My Republicans have forgotten the beauty of the free market, driven up deficits, and rejected election results. Democrats aren’t any better at dealing with deficits, and I worry about their local policies hurting our cities with increased crime."
In his post, Schwarzenegger says that he endorses Kamala Harris and Tim Walz, not because he agrees with all their policies, but because he believes they can help end the current era of division and anger.
He encourages others who feel frustrated to vote for leaders who can bring unity and progress to the country. He said:
"That’s enough reason for me to share my vote with all of you. I want to move forward as a country, and even though I have plenty of disagreements with their platform, I think the only way to do that is with Harris and Walz."
More about Arnold Schwarzenegger's political past
Arnold Schwarzenegger, a Republican active since the 1990s, won California’s 2003 recall election and became the state’s 38th governor. Taking office on November 17, 2003, he was the first foreign-born governor of California since 1862.
During his term, Schwarzenegger focused on cutting greenhouse gas emissions, raising the minimum wage, and reforming workers' compensation. He also promoted physical education and after-school programs.
Before his governorship, Arnold Schwarzenegger was involved in the Special Olympics as a coach and ambassador. President George H.W. Bush appointed him to lead the President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports from 1990 to 1993, and he later chaired California’s fitness council.
His awards include the Simon Wiesenthal Center’s “National Leadership Award,” the 2002 Muhammad Ali Humanitarian Award, and Time’s “100 People Who Help Shape the World” list in 2004.
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