SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Friday marked 20 years since Arnold Schwarzenegger won a recall election to become California’s governor.
He spoke about his time in office with the Sacramento Press Club, reflecting on his plan for the state.
"I had a very clear vision of what I wanted to do and I explained it to the people, and the battle began," he said. "It was wild because, in no time, we had everyone from the Democratic party out here."
Schwarzenegger served as governor of California for seven years and was the last Republican to serve in the role to present.
He jokingly recalled when Bill Clinton and Willie Brown said they were going to "terminate the terminator."
Schwarzenegger says he’s “adamant about working across the aisle” and not seeing the other side as the enemy.
"Democrats should not be the enemy of the Republicans. It's the competition and competition creates great performance," he said.
Sacramento Mayor Darrell Steinberg greeted the former governor and released a statement on his visit to the city.
"I have great memories of my times with Gov. Schwarzenegger. We led together during one of the most challenging times in state history,” the statement said. “Agree or disagree, he was always about California and helped lead the state through those tough times. I especially appreciate that he has continued to be a true bridge builder using his fame to speak out against division, hate, and bigotry. I’m proud to call him a friend."
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