Schwarzenegger Speaks

I remember watching the Nixon and Humphrey presidential race on TV. A friend who spoke German and English, translated for me. I heard Humphrey saying things that sounded like socialism, which is what I had just left. But then I heard Nixon speak. He was talking about free enterprise, getting government off your back, lowering taxes and strengthening the military. Listening to Nixon speak sounded more like a breath of fresh air. I said to my friend, "What party is he?" My friend said, "He's a Republican." I said, "Then I am a Republican!"

This is such a powerful statement. And to hear the way Arnold said it, as it was been repeated in the clips on the day after, was powerful.

I mean, think of the picture he created. An new immigrant, unable to speak the language, knowing none of the political background or backbiting of the past, having no idea of the personality of the candidates, has the ideas and ideas only, translated for him. He said that he had escaped socialism only to find it hear in the guise of the Democratic party, but that the Republican ideals offered him the real hope he was looking for.

And with his heavily accented voice a constant reminder of his origins, Arnold is a wonderful example of the American dream come true and the perfect spokesman for the Republican party.