Veteran Hollywood actor George Clooney has sharply criticised the Donald Trump administration, describing the current period in American politics as an “unfortunate” chapter in the country’s history.
Speaking to reporters at the opening of the Venice Film Festival on Wednesday, the 65-year-old actor said he believed the United States would eventually overcome its current political challenges.
Clooney, who has previously spoken publicly against the Trump administration, said he felt “ashamed” of the US government and questioned the quality of its leadership.
He used the term “kakistocracy”, which refers to government by people considered to be the least qualified or capable.
“I think maybe we have a kakistocracy right now, but we’ll get through it,” Clooney said.
Clooney Points to US Political Future
Clooney said the upcoming US midterm elections in November could provide an important “check and balance” on the administration.
He also expressed hope that the country could return to greater political normalcy after the 2028 presidential election.
Despite his criticism, Clooney described himself as an optimist.
He recalled previous periods of political and social turmoil in the United States, including 1968, a year marked by widespread violence and major political unrest.
Clooney pointed to the assassinations of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. and Senator Robert F. Kennedy that year.
He also recalled the violence surrounding political protests and the heavy security presence around the US Capitol.
“We’ve had some other difficult times, but this is one of them,” he said.
Actor Raises Concerns Over Political Decency
Clooney also criticised recent comments and conduct by senior US officials.
He referred to a social media post by US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth that appeared to mock the physical appearance of an overweight Canadian female soldier who was presenting a medal at a youth camp.
Clooney questioned what he described as a decline in political decency.
“Where’s the sense of decency in all of this?” he asked.
The actor said he was ashamed of some developments in the country but remained confident that the United States would eventually move beyond the current period.
“We will get through it,” Clooney said. “And we will come out better on the other side.”
Clooney Speaks at Venice Film Festival
Clooney made the comments during his appearance at the Venice Film Festival, where he is set to receive the prestigious Golden Lion for career achievement.
The press conference covered several topics, including his long film career, artificial intelligence, climate change and the future of the film industry.
His remarks on US politics are likely to attract significant attention given his history of political activism and public criticism of the Trump administration.
