Former Governor of California · 2003-2011

Arnold Schwarzenegger

Republican Republican Critics
Summary

Former California Governor and action movie star who became a vocal Trump critic, particularly on issues of immigration, the Capitol riot, and democratic norms, while maintaining his Republican identity.

In Their Own Words

Key Statements

President Trump sought to overturn the results of an election, and of a fair election. He sought a coup by misleading people with lies... President Trump is a failed leader. He will go down in history as the worst president ever.
January 10, 2021 · https://www.cnn.com/2021/01/10/politics/arnold-schwarzenegger-donald-trump-capitol-riot/index.html
Video message after the January 6 Capitol attack
I don't want to be associated with the people in the Capitol. I don't want to be associated with President Trump. I don't want to be associated with the people that made those speeches that riled everyone up.
February 21, 2021 · https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/feb/21/arnold-schwarzenegger-republican-party-trump
Explaining his decision to call himself a 'European American' rather than a Republican
To the men and women who would trade freedom for a pile of bricks and an immigration ban, I say: Your time will come. And it will pass.
February 26, 2017 · https://www.politico.com/story/2017/02/arnold-schwarzenegger-trump-immigration-235402
Criticizing Trump's border wall and immigration policies
Why This Matters

Credibility & Background

Analysis

Reasons for Opposition

  1. 01 Strongly opposes Trump's attempt to overturn 2020 election results
  2. 02 Condemns Trump's role in inciting the January 6 Capitol attack
  3. 03 Disagrees with Trump's immigration policies as an immigrant himself
  4. 04 Believes Trump has damaged American democracy and Republican Party
  5. 05 Opposes Trump's rejection of climate science and environmental policies
View All Critics

Explore the full list of Republican officials, military leaders, and former staff who have spoken out against Trump.