The Dual Citizen Governor

Schwarzenegger defends controversial statements on Austria

Vienna – Californian Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger has defended himself against recent criticism from Austrians in an interview with “die Presse.” The actor-tuned-politician had earlier come under fire after he called Austria a “socialist sate” in a speech to the Republican Convention in New York. Schwarzenegger said, “I was talking about the socialist system in Austria, where the state is the largest owner. The tobacco industry, gambling monopoly, TV and radio, steel and the Post are all good examples of state-run enterprises.” He went on to say, “In America, I’ve always said if you want to be the world’s best conductor, you cannot beat Austria. The same applies to skiing. And Austria also is a leader in terms of culture, science, political science and economics.” Schwarzenegger, who was also criticised for claiming to remember the Soviet occupation after the War, said he saw Soviet tanks during a trip to Semmering.

(Via the Gropinator)