Schwarzenegger Backs Kamala Harris: Calls for Unity, Slams GOP and Trump

Former California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger publicly endorses Kamala Harris, voicing frustration with both major parties yet emphasizing his discontent with Donald Trump's divisive leadership. In a candid statement, Schwarzenegger urges Americans to 'move forward' by voting for Harris and Tim Walz as he advocates for unity and the values he believes the country was founded on.

Arnold Schwarzenegger, the Austrian-born actor and former Republican governor of California, surprised many by endorsing Kamala Harris for the U.S. presidency. The famed bodybuilder, known globally for his role in The Terminator, shared his stance in a lengthy X (formerly Twitter) post on Wednesday. Schwarzenegger, who served as California’s governor from 2003 to 2011, minced no words about his growing frustration with both Republicans and Democrats.

“Let me be honest with you,” Schwarzenegger began, “I don’t like either party right now. My fellow Republicans have lost sight of the free market's value, allowed deficits to soar, and dismissed the results of elections. Meanwhile, Democrats have struggled with fiscal responsibility, and I worry their local policies are compromising the safety of our cities.”

Reflecting on the current state of politics, Schwarzenegger added, “It’s no secret that I hate politics more than ever. And if you’re someone who’s not addicted to this mess, you probably feel the same.” He voiced his desire to “tune out” but stated that ignoring the situation isn’t an option for him. “Rejecting an election’s outcome is fundamentally un-American. I speak with people worldwide, and they still see America as a shining beacon. To hear Americans degrade it angers me deeply.”

Schwarzenegger continued by affirming his loyalty to the nation over party lines, stating, “I am always an American before I am a Republican.” He noted his intention to vote for Kamala Harris and Tim Walz, adding, “I’m sharing this because I believe many of you feel the same way. Our country feels unrecognizable right now, and we have every right to be furious.”

In his endorsement, Schwarzenegger directed sharp criticism at Republican nominee Donald Trump. “A candidate who disregards the legitimacy of any vote against him, who incites followers to storm the Capitol, and who accomplishes nothing for the people besides a tax cut for his wealthy donors and people like me—such a candidate can’t bring about change,” he wrote. “All he’ll do is give us more anger, division, and resentment.”

As he urged Americans to “close the door on this chapter” of political turmoil, Schwarzenegger expressed his belief that Trump’s presidency would only worsen the country's divide. “He will insult, divide, and look for new ways to undermine what it means to be American,” he wrote, warning that the people will “gain nothing but more rage.”

Although Schwarzenegger acknowledged that he has “plenty of disagreements” with the Harris-Walz platform, he feels that they represent the best chance to help the country “move forward.” “I believe the only way to do that is with Harris and Walz,” he concluded.

He ended his message by encouraging Americans to vote, sharing a link to Vote.org, and urging citizens to “turn the page” and leave past political strife behind.