FROM THE HILL: Former California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger (R) is stepping back into the political arena as a crusader against partisan redistricting.
Urging Californians to “terminate gerrymandering,” the former governor and Hollywood icon has joined the likes of former GOP Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.), donor Charlie Munger Jr. and state GOP legislators in pushing back on the plan, which could net five Democratic House seats by temporarily bypassing the state’s independent redistricting commission.
Schwarzenegger has long been a champion of the commission, which voters approved during his tenure as governor. Political experts see him entering the spotlight to defend his legacy — even as current California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) stresses that the redistricting plan won’t undercut the existing system.
“Schwarzenegger was and is a Republican, but there are certain issues that separate him pretty dramatically from the party mainstream. One of those was his work on climate change legislation, but his reform legacy might be what makes him most proud,” said Dan Schnur, a former Republican strategist.
“He sees it as under threat.”
Earlier this month, Schwarzenegger told the Houston Chronicle, “It is very wrong what they’re doing to Texas and it is very wrong what they’re trying to do in California. It is not at all serving the people. It is serving the party.”
Schwarzenegger’s next move is unclear, but he’s signaled that he’s ready for “the gerrymandering battle.” On his “Arnold’s Pump Club” site, he’s alludes to his most iconic role with a “terminate gerrymandering” shirt up for sale.
I’m getting ready for the gerrymandering battle. pic.twitter.com/Lbgr1bnGw8
— Arnold (@Schwarzenegger) August 15, 2025
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