In a recent series of statements, former President Donald Trump directed pointed criticism toward actor George Clooney, focusing on Clooney's political affiliations, public statements, and his recent naturalization as a French citizen. These remarks were made via Trump's own social media platform, where he voiced dissatisfaction with Clooney's vocal support for Democratic politicians and questioned the actor's influence beyond his film career.
Trump's comments appear to be in direct response to news confirming that George Clooney and his wife, Amal Clooney, an accomplished human rights lawyer, have both been granted citizenship in France. The former president characterized the couple as "two of the worst political prognosticators of all time," a jab underscoring his disapproval of their political positions and predictions.
Further elaborating on his critique, Trump diminished Clooney's status as an actor, stating that the publicity he received was more related to his political activism than to his filmography. According to Trump, Clooney's contributions to cinema were limited and unremarkable, labeling him "just an average guy who complained, constantly, about common sense in politics." This comment reflects Trump's broader pattern of challenging individuals who publicly oppose him or his policies.
In addition to this, Trump also addressed Clooney's remarks regarding the alleged mental decline of President Joe Biden. Trump used this as a point to introduce speculation about potential political contenders for the 2028 U.S. presidential election, specifically mentioning California Governor Gavin Newsom. This connection marks an extension of the political dialogue between the former president and prominent public figures.
These recent verbal attacks come shortly after George Clooney was involved in a public dispute with Bari Weiss, the editor-in-chief of CBS News. Clooney accused Weiss of "dismantling CBS News," highlighting ongoing tensions between media figures and prominent actors who engage in political discourse.
The confrontation between Trump and Clooney is emblematic of the enduring friction between the former president and segments of the entertainment industry. Clooney has been an outspoken critic of Trump in the past, frequently using his public platform to express disagreement with the former president's policies and statements.
Trump's focus on Clooney's acquisition of French citizenship has introduced another layer of discussion related to immigration and national identity debates within political and public spheres. By linking Clooney's new nationality to current issues in France, including crime concerns, Trump is utilizing this development to further critique both Clooney and wider political contexts.
This sequence of public exchanges underscores the continual presence of Trump in the political discourse despite no longer holding public office, and the sustained role of prominent cultural figures like Clooney in shaping political conversations.