Schwarzenegger’s Comments on Immigration Spark Debate on ‘The View’
During a recent appearance on The View, Arnold Schwarzenegger stirred conversation when he suggested that immigrants
in the U.S. should “act like guests” and give back to the country that welcomed them.
Promoting the new season of his Netflix series Fubar, the former California governor was asked about the state’s immigration
issues and how he would approach them if he were still in office. Co-host Joy Behar brought up Schwarzenegger’s own history
as an immigrant, asking how it shaped his stance.
Schwarzenegger reflected on his personal journey, expressing appreciation for the opportunities he found in the U.S. However, he
emphasized that immigration should happen “the legal way.”
“We have to follow the law,” Schwarzenegger said. “That’s the most important part. People coming here illegally aren’t making smart choices.
When you arrive in a country, you’re a guest — and you should act like one.”
He elaborated on that comparison, saying, “Just like when I’m a guest in someone’s home, I respect the space. I keep it clean,
I make the bed. I don’t cause trouble.”
As Schwarzenegger continued, co-host Sunny Hostin attempted to respond but was unable to speak until later in the segment.
He went on to encourage immigrants to show their gratitude by giving back through unpaid contributions to their communities.
While the audience reacted positively, moderator Whoopi Goldberg offered a gentle counterpoint. “Arnold, don’t forget — most people
who come here are trying to do the right thing,” she said. “Many of them are being deported unfairly, even when they have the proper documentation.”
Hostin added a key statistic, noting that immigrants are statistically less likely to commit crimes than native-born Americans.
The discussion touched on a broader national debate: how to balance legal immigration, public safety, and the recognition of the
vast majority who arrive with hopes of building better lives within the law.
