Arnold Schwarzenegger reveals whether he thinks Caitlyn Jenner can win California governor election

Terminator star was California governor from 2003 to 2011

Arnold Schwarzenegger has revealed whether he believes Caitlyn Jenner can prevail in California’s next gubernatorial election.

The actor, who was the governor of California from 2003 to 2011, was asked about Jenner’s newly announced run on Monday during an appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live.

“Do you think Caitlyn Jenner has any chance of winning this election?” Kimmel asked.

Schwarzenegger replied: “Anyone has a chance, because I think people are dissatisfied with what’s going on here in California. I hope as many people as possible are jumping into the race and going for it.”

The actor and politician looked back on his own campaign, which happened during a recall election much like the one current governor Gavin Newsom is likely to face.

Officials announced on Monday that the effort to recall Newsom, which has been led by Republicans, has received enough signatures to make the ballot.

Schwarzenegger described the recall election that resulted in his own mandate as a “huge circus”, adding: “It was kind of fun to run for governor at that time, and it will be fun this time too for everybody.”

“The key thing for about all of this – it doesn’t matter if it’s Caitlyn or anyone else – is to have a clear vision of where you want to, what are the kinds of changes you want to make, and why you’re qualified to become governor,” he said.

Schwarzenegger’s second term as California governor ended in January 2011. He was replaced by Jerry Brown from 2011 to 2019. Newsom assumed the office in January of 2019.