Conan the President

While the nation is focused on the 2004 election, my sights are no longer on the here and now. In the wake of Feb. 22’s Meet the Press, I’m all about 2008. The big news from Russert-world that day was Ralph Nader’s decision to run as an independent. Nader’s announcement got the headlines but the more important news came from the other guest, Arnold Schwarzenegger, the Governor of California. Asked about an Orrin Hatch-backed constitutional amendment that would allow foreign-born, U.S. citizens who’ve lived here for more than 20 years to run for president, Schwarzenegger responded with enthusiastic support.

But, when asked about the possibility of a run for the White House sometime down the road, the Governator responded by stating: “I have no idea. I’ll tell you that I’m so busy with our state.” This is, of course, the standard non-denial denial that is the mark of every Presidential candidate in-waiting. While some may be tempted to ridicule Arnold’s ambition or laugh at it as some stupid joke on a slow-news Sunday, if the amendment passes and Arnold runs, I’d support him. Heck, he just might win.

Arnold has a great issue profile. He is fiscally conservative, strong on defense, yet socially liberal. He’s a Republican not beholden to the religious right. Literally and figuratively, he’s the type of Republican even a Kennedy-liberal could love. He’s the governor of a large state with complicated problems similar to those at the national level. Those dismissing him because of a perceived lack of experience should consider that in ’08, Schwarzenegger will have been governor of California for five years. President Bush was only governor of Texas for six before being elected—and former Democratic Presidential hopeful John Edwards is only a one-term Senator.

Schwarzenegger is an ideal candidate. He’s got widespread name recognition, a wife well-schooled in public relations, a considerable personal fortune to help finance his campaign and for those ladies swayed by John Edwards’ sex appeal, the tanned and chiseled Arnold—a seven-time Mr. Universe—would surely be attractive. As President Bush scrambles to woo Hispanic voters, the nation’s fastest growing demographic, Republicans should recall that despite running against a Latino candidate. Schwarzenegger managed to capture nearly a third of the Hispanic vote.

And let’s not forget what happened last time when Republicans put a little faith in an actor-turned-California-politician. They were richly rewarded with the White House for three consecutive terms. So to those Republicans waiting on the sidelines this primary season, join me in thinking ahead to ’08. If you’re smart, you’ll ignore Condi, disregard Jeb, leave Frist in the Senate and go with Arnold for America.

Of course, this is all wishful thinking. The Hatch Amendment most likely isn’t going anywhere; and there are probably too many skeletons in Arnold’s awfully big closet for him to mount any serious effort for the White House anyway. Arnold, however, shouldn’t be ignored.

Even more so than George W. Bush, he is amply prepared to revolutionize the GOP, while many Republicans are still seeking to turn back the clock. In the long arc of the American political tradition, Arnold’s social liberalism is destined to prevail. He has already abandoned all opposition to abortion, homosexual “marriage” and gun control. A few years from now, it’s quite possible that the governor will be universally admired for his courage and foresight. To have any chance of winning future elections, Republicans must appeal beyond their evangelical base—they must learn to love and emulate the Terminator.

Adam J. Katz ’07, a Crimson editorial comper lives in Pennypacker Hall.