Schwarzenegger Sparks Outrage on ‘The View’ After Sharing Political Stance

Arnold Schwarzenegger, the immigrant-turned-Republican governor of California, found himself in the hot seat on The View Tuesday morning after making explosive remarks about immigrants “doing illegal things”—remarks that immediately drew audible gasps and sharp pushback from the panel.

Schwarzenegger Echoes Trump-Era Rhetoric

With the country still reeling from President Donald Trump’s mass deportation campaign and controversial use of ICE, Schwarzenegger was asked about California’s fierce resistance to federal crackdowns. At first, he tried to praise the American dream, calling the U.S. “the land of opportunity.” But the conversation quickly took a turn.

“We have to do things legal, and those people that are doing illegal things in America, they are not smart,” Schwarzenegger declared, repeating talking points reminiscent of Trump’s widely criticized claims about immigrants and crime.

The comment was met with shock. Host Whoopi Goldberg stepped in, reminding Schwarzenegger—and the millions watching—that, “Ninety percent of people who come here are just trying to do the right thing.” Schwarzenegger offered little more than a vague nod, prompting co-host Sunny Hostin to cite the facts: “Immigrants are less likely to commit crimes in this country than American-born citizens.”

Dodging Questions as Trump’s Crackdown Intensifies

Joy Behar pressed Schwarzenegger on whether, as an immigrant himself, he had a personal reaction to the images of families being torn apart by ICE. Instead of a direct answer, Schwarzenegger pivoted to his own achievements: “All of this is because of America,” he said, referencing his career and family, but avoided condemning the Trump administration’s tactics.

“When you come to America, you’re guests, and you have to behave like a guest,” he added, doubling down on his earlier comments. “That is the right thing to do, rather than committing a crime or being abusive… That doesn’t really work in this country.”

A Deafening Silence on Trump’s Actions

What Schwarzenegger left unsaid was impossible to ignore. Under President Trump, ICE was ordered to arrest at least 3,000 migrants a day—including those with legal status. Many of these people were simply seeking safety or opportunity for their families. The administration’s justifications have relied on dehumanizing rhetoric, at times labeling immigrants as “animals”—yet Schwarzenegger had no words of condemnation for these policies.

Instead, he called for “bipartisanship,” insisting, “Democrats and Republicans have to come together and solve this issue. That’s why we’re in this mess.”

Immigrant Communities Demand Accountability

Schwarzenegger’s remarks landed especially hard as anti-ICE protests erupted in Los Angeles, prompting Trump to deploy the National Guard. For many, the former governor’s refusal to stand up for immigrants and denounce sweeping arrests felt like a betrayal.

Maria, a Los Angeles teacher and daughter of immigrants, told us, “It’s disheartening to see someone who’s benefited from the American dream imply that people like my parents are the problem. We need leaders to speak out against cruelty, not echo the same tired stereotypes.”

As the debate over immigration continues to divide the country, Schwarzenegger’s comments on national TV made clear just how high the stakes have become—and just how far some are willing to go to avoid challenging the party line.