Arnold Schwarzenegger has made headlines recently, not only for his outspoken political views but also for celebrating his daughter’s significant achievement. The Hollywood star and former governor took to social media to share his pride over Monica Barbaro, who received her first Academy Award nomination for her role as Joan Baez in the film A Complete Unknown.
Schwarzenegger expressed his excitement with enthusiasm on Instagram, posting a heartfelt message alongside an emotional photo of Barbaro. "Congratulations to my amazing FUBAR daughter on the Academy Award nomination. You may be surprised, but I am not!" he wrote, showcasing the close bond they share. The duo stars together in the Netflix series FUBAR, which premiered last year and has received mixed reviews from critics and audiences alike.
On top of celebrating personal milestones, Schwarzenegger has also been vocal about his political stance, especially as the inauguration of Donald Trump as the new president approaches. He felt compelled to address rumors circulating about his plans to leave the United States due to Trump's presidency.
These rumors were sparked by a controversial post from a pro-Trump account which claimed Schwarzenegger was fed up with Trump's "nonsense" and would leave America. Schwarzenegger wasted no time in quashing such fake news, asserting, "Don’t believe fake news. I was born in Austria, but I was made in America, and I’d never leave." His resolute stance underscored his deep connection to his adopted country, where he has lived since moving to California at the age of 21.
The former bodybuilder turned actor has steered his political opinions toward the upcoming election. Despite identifying as a Republican, Schwarzenegger has endorsed Kamala Harris, noting his discontent with both major political parties. "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," he said, reflecting the complexity of his political views.
His decision to support Harris was not without internal conflict, as he acknowledged the difficulties faced when choosing between the two parties. "I will always be an American before I am a Republican," he stated, explaining how this principle directed his voting choice.
Schwarzenegger's criticism of Trump remained sharp, recounting past clashes. "We need to close the door on this chapter of American history, and I know former President Trump won’t do this. He will divide, he will insult, and 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," he wrote, emphasizing his belief in unity over division.
His political posts have sparked varied reactions from followers. Some users expressed solid disagreement with his endorsement but appreciated his rational approach to political discourse. One supporter remarked on social media, "Love you Arnie, don’t agree with your choice here at all, but that's the beauty of being reasonable, objective, and open to discourse. We can all get along and thrive.” Schwarzenegger acknowledged these respectful disagreements, asserting the importance of civil dialogue during pointed exchanges.
Another voter commented, "I personally will likely vote for a third-party candidate, but Arnold’s reasoning is logical and rational, if perhaps a bit too pragmatic for me. But that's who he is, and why he is voting the way he is, and I don’t believe he has any hidden motivations." Schwarzenegger responded to such remarks with appreciation for constructive discourse, reiterizing how worthwhile it is to have differing viewpoints without rancor.
With all the political drama building as the election draws near, Schwarzenegger’s embrace of open conversation perhaps resonates as much as his recent family honor. His participation as both a father celebrating his daughter’s achievement and as a citizen engaged with the political process highlights the duality present throughout his career—where muscular action star meets high-profile statesman.
Monica Barbaro's nomination is now adding more layers to Schwarzenegger's vibrant narrative as he continues to bridge his entertainment world with earnest political engagement. Whether through celebrating family triumphs or sounding off on political matters, Arnold Schwarzenegger remains both relevant and compelling, embodying the American spirit he holds dear.