“Be a public servant. Not a party servant,” Schwarzenegger said. Arnold: 'I love paying my taxes!'

In a new interview with Esquire, former Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger reflects on his time in public office and shares what he’s learned about politics.

“You can’t learn charisma,” said Schwarzenegger. “The power of influence is one of the most unique powers that you can have. It’s not the power of controlling people. It’s developing a certain skill of communicating what you want to accomplish so that people will follow you.”


Schwarzenegger also said, “Be a public servant. Not a party servant,” a statement that isn’t surprising given the fact that his own views weren’t always in line with Republican doctrine.

( Also on POLITICO: Arnold will be back — for climate series on Showtime)

Speaking about taxes, Schwarzenegger’s got no problem paying them, he says. “I always tell my accountant, If you’re in doubt about taxes, pay more. No Cayman Island offshore investments. No gimmicks. I love paying my taxes!”

There were a number of moments during Schwarzenegger’s time in office that caused him to scratch his head.

“I remember when I went into politics, the legislature wanted to create a blueberry commission. Who’s gonna say no to a blueberry commission? Well, I said no. I thought they should fix the budget before they do the fu—king blueberry commission.”

And: “Politicians admire the military people who go to Iraq and risk their lives. Well, how about having just 10 percent of that courage?”

( Also on POLITICO: Poll: Men, women differ on Schwarzenegger)

“We must teach the future leaders that political courage is not political suicide,” concludes Schwarzenegger.

Schwarzenegger is making a return to movies: “Last Stand,” in which he plays a sheriff trying to prevent a fugitive from entering his town, hits theaters in January

This article tagged under: Taxes

California

Arnold Schwarzenegger