James Cameron Voices Strong Disapproval of President Trump’s Second Term, Nears New Zealand Citizenship
Renowned filmmaker James Cameron has openly expressed his deep concern and disapproval of President Donald Trump’s second term in office. In a candid interview with New Zealand news outlet Stuff, the Canadian director shared his anxieties regarding the current state of the American government and articulated his sense of relief at residing geographically distant from the political turmoil. Cameron is on the verge of becoming a New Zealand citizen, a decision he described as "imminent" in the interview.
The 70-year-old director didn’t mince words when discussing his feelings about Trump’s continuation in power. "I think it’s horrific," he stated emphatically. "I think it’s horrifying. … I see a turn away from everything decent. America doesn’t stand for anything if it doesn’t stand for what it has historically stood for. It becomes a hollow idea." USA TODAY has reached out to representatives for further comment.
Cameron’s outspoken criticism comes at a time when the entertainment industry, typically a hotbed of political commentary, has seemingly adopted a more subdued approach towards the Trump administration. While Hollywood has long been home to a multitude of Trump critics, the aftermath of the second election has seen a shift towards what could be described as a "quieter resistance." Awards season, traditionally known for its fiery political speeches, has featured less direct "anti-Trump" rhetoric, with more attention being paid to specific groups, such as immigrants and transgender Americans, who have been particularly impacted by recent administration policies.
Cameron, however, believes that the administration is actively dismantling the core values of the United States. "I think they’re hollowing it out as fast as they can," he said, referring to President Trump and his appointees. "For their own benefit."
Despite residing outside of the United States, the director of blockbuster films such as "Avatar" and "Titanic" emphasized that he cannot completely disconnect himself from the political situation in America. "I think we’re all in this together globally. I don’t know if I feel any safer here," he told the New Zealand outlet, "but I certainly feel like I don’t have to read it on the front page every single day and it’s just sickening."
Cameron humorously noted that New Zealand newspapers typically relegate Trump-related news to page three, a welcome change from the constant barrage of negative headlines he had become accustomed to. He likened following the news from the United States to "watching a car crash over and over." "I just don’t want to see that guy’s face anymore on the front page of the paper," he said, expressing his desire for a respite from the seemingly endless stream of political negativity.
While James Cameron was born in Canada, he achieved widespread recognition and success in Hollywood after moving to the United States. His ties with New Zealand, however, run deep. Both of the high-grossing "Avatar" films were created in collaboration with Weta Digital, an Oscar-winning visual effects studio based in Wellington, the country’s capital. The filmmaker has invested considerable time and resources into the country, and the decision to pursue citizenship reflects his strong connection to New Zealand.
Cameron’s decision to speak out against the Trump administration, despite the potential for backlash, underscores his commitment to his personal beliefs. He joins a growing chorus of voices expressing concern about the direction of American politics, even as the broader entertainment industry navigates a complex and politically charged landscape. His move towards New Zealand citizenship signals a desire for a more peaceful and less politically tumultuous environment, but his words make clear that he will not remain silent on issues he considers crucial.
The director’s comments highlight a broader trend of unease and disillusionment among some Americans and international observers regarding the Trump administration’s policies and rhetoric. While some may criticize Cameron for speaking out from abroad, his perspective offers a valuable insight into how the current political climate in the United States is viewed from an international perspective.
As Cameron prepares to formally become a New Zealand citizen, his words serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of holding political leaders accountable and advocating for the values of decency, justice, and equality. His decision to seek refuge in a country that aligns more closely with his values reflects a growing sense of displacement and alienation among those who feel that the United States has strayed from its historical ideals. His commentary will likely generate further discussion and debate regarding the state of American politics and its impact on the international community. Ultimately, Cameron’s candid remarks serve as a call for reflection and a reminder of the importance of safeguarding democratic values in an increasingly polarized world.
