Arnold Schwarzenegger Endorses Kamala Harris and Tim Walz: "Being American Comes First for Me"

Arnold Schwarzenegger Endorses Kamala Harris and Tim Walz: "Being American Comes First for Me"

In a surprising move, former California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger has endorsed Kamala Harris and Tim Walz in the upcoming presidential election. Known as a lifelong Republican, Schwarzenegger shared his stance on social media, emphasizing that his commitment to America outweighs party loyalty.

Taking to the platform X, formerly Twitter, Schwarzenegger expressed his views in a heartfelt post, explaining why he felt compelled to endorse candidates from the opposite political side. He prefaced his announcement by admitting, "I hate politics." Normally, he doesn't make endorsements, noting that he's not fond of either major party right now. But he said he couldn’t stay silent this time around. He explained that witnessing some recent political events has felt deeply unsettling, driving him to step forward.

One of his biggest criticisms was directed at former President Donald Trump’s unwillingness to accept the 2020 election results. “Rejecting the results of an election is as un-American as it gets,” Schwarzenegger wrote. He added that, for someone like himself, who connects with people globally and still sees America as the "shining city on a hill," hearing leaders undermine the country's values has been extremely frustrating. "Calling America a trash can is so unpatriotic, it makes me furious,” he continued.

Schwarzenegger's post also addressed a broader sentiment that he believes many Americans share. He feels that the country has changed in ways that can be hard to recognize and that this frustration is valid. In his message, he said, "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." Schwarzenegger explained that he’s sharing his choice publicly because he believes many people feel as he does – that they are losing touch with the values that once made the United States feel unified and proud.

He continued by voicing disappointment in Trump’s approach, accusing the former president of acting divisively. He criticized Trump’s handling of the January 6th Capitol riot, mentioning the troubling image of Trump “watching with a Diet Coke” as his supporters stormed the Capitol building. For Schwarzenegger, a leader who doesn’t respect a vote unless it favors them, and who would incite such chaos, does not represent a healthy path forward for the country. He also pointed out that, under Trump, the primary legislative achievement seemed to be a tax cut that benefited the wealthy rather than addressing issues affecting the majority of Americans.

Schwarzenegger also commented on the divide he perceives within the nation, saying that a candidate who views Americans with differing opinions as enemies of the state is not what the country needs right now. According to him, prioritizing unity and finding common ground is the only way to effectively address America’s challenges. He shared his disappointment in leaders who can’t see this need for cooperation.

Arnold's stance isn’t without controversy, especially given his long-standing Republican background. However, his message conveyed that, for him, being an American comes first. As a former immigrant who rose to significant success in the U.S., Schwarzenegger’s commitment to the country’s values remains a central part of his identity. In his view, respecting democracy and unity is fundamental, regardless of political affiliation.

While Schwarzenegger admitted that he doesn’t agree with all aspects of the Democratic platform, he emphasized that the direction of leadership matters more. His support for Harris and Walz reflects his belief that the current state of politics has strayed too far from what he considers American ideals. He encouraged others to think deeply about the future and to consider voting in ways that prioritize unity and respect for democratic values.

Ultimately, Schwarzenegger’s message is a call for Americans to look beyond party lines. He wants people to think about the country’s broader future and choose leaders who are focused on progress. For him, endorsing Harris and Walz represents a choice for stability and cooperation over division.

Arnold Schwarzenegger's public endorsement has sparked a conversation across social media, with many reacting to his outspoken message. Some applaud his courage to break away from traditional party loyalty, while others question his decision. Regardless, his statement has made waves and has people discussing what it means to prioritize America over political identity.

Schwarzenegger concluded his message by urging fellow Americans to stand together, find common ground, and remember what the country has always stood for. His endorsement of Harris and Walz may be surprising to some, but it’s rooted in his belief that America can only move forward if its leaders promote unity and respect for all.