Arnold Schwarzenegger Says Caitlyn Jenner Has Chance at California
Elijah King
Published Apr 04, 2026
Arnold Schwarzenegger on Monday said he believes Caitlyn Jenner has a chance to become the next governor of California as Gavin Newsom faces a recall election in the fall.
Actor and former California Gov. Schwarzenegger made his comments during an appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live! Jenner, a Republican, recently announced her plans to run for the top state spot, which Schwarzenegger, also a Republican, was asked about.
“Anyone has a chance because I think the people are dissatisfied with what is going on here in California,” Schwarzenegger began. “And I hope as many people as possible are jumping into the race.”
Schwarzenegger noted that when he ran for governor during a recall election in 2003, there were 150 candidates. He believes there will be at least 100 this time around.
“The key thing about all this is — it doesn’t matter if it’s Caitlyn or if it’s anyone else — to have a clear vision of where you want to go, what are the kind of changes you want to make and why are you qualified to become governor.”
Kimmel quipped, “I think the thing Caitlyn knows for sure is the changes she wants to make — because she made some real big changes.”
Schwarzenegger said he is “very good friends” with Jenner, but declined to say if she called him concerning her decision to run. “I have the utmost respect for her, but I am also very good friends with Governor Newsom. And I am good friends with other people who have contacted me and asked for advice about running or not running.”
Watch the full interview below.
