In a candid appearance on HBO’s Real Time, former California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger addressed his political identity in today’s shifting landscape, telling host Bill Maher that while the Republican Party has changed, his values remain rooted in what he calls “traditional Republican” principles.
Maher pressed Schwarzenegger on whether the ideals that originally drew him to the Republican Party still match the party’s modern direction. Without hesitation, the former governor acknowledged the evolution: “Things change. It’s very clear that it has changed. I’m a traditional Republican.”
Honoring Historical Republican Values
Schwarzenegger took a moment to highlight the legacy of historical Republican leaders he admires, referencing Abraham Lincoln and Ronald Reagan among others. He pointed to milestones in American history — including the end of slavery and voting rights for Black Americans — as key achievements linked to past Republican leadership.
While reflecting on these accomplishments, he emphasized that change within a political party does not mean individuals must abandon their core beliefs. “The party has changed now…but that doesn’t mean that we have to change,” he said. “We have to work to bring back the philosophy.”
A Personal Journey from Austria to American Politics
Maher brought up Schwarzenegger’s early life in post-war Austria, recalling his 2004 Republican National Convention speech about witnessing the realities of occupation and centralized control. Schwarzenegger said that when he came to the United States, he didn’t fully understand the party system but gravitated toward Republican ideas after hearing leaders like President Richard Nixon speak.
“People should know that it is important that we serve the people, not the parties,” he said, reflecting on his years governing California.
A Call for Collaboration Over Division
Schwarzenegger spoke warmly about bipartisan cooperation during his time in Sacramento, recalling how he made it a priority to work respectfully across party lines. “I may think differently than you sometimes, but you are not my enemy,” he remembered telling Democratic lawmakers.
He argued that meaningful policy comes from collaboration, not confrontation. “With the Republican brain and with the Democratic brain together, we’ve got the ultimate ability to get things done.”
Maher noted that California’s political environment is unique, often allowing more room for moderate voices. Schwarzenegger agreed but maintained that the principle of dialogue should apply everywhere. “We have to talk to each other rather than turning away. That’s what people want and need.”
Looking Ahead
Schwarzenegger also took pride in supporting California’s independent redistricting commission — a reform aimed at reducing partisan influence in drawing electoral maps — a system now facing new challenges under current political leadership.
Across the conversation, Schwarzenegger’s message was steady: political identity should serve the public good, not deepen divisions. Even as his party moves in new directions, he remains committed to the principles that first inspired his political journey — pragmatism, civic duty, and cooperation.
In a political climate often defined by sharp divides, his message stood out clearly: leadership, at its core, is about working together.