Actor Dennis Quaid has publicly expressed his support for Donald Trump as he seeks a return to the presidency, surprising some given Quaid’s previous connection to former President George W. Bush. Quaid made his endorsement during a rally for Trump in California’s Coachella Valley on Saturday.
Earlier this year, Quaid hinted at his support for Trump during an interview with Piers Morgan, stating, “I think I’m going to vote for [Trump] in the next election.” He expressed concerns about what he sees as a misuse of the justice system against Trump, asserting, “Trump is probably the most investigated person in the history of the world,” and noting that prosecutors have not managed to secure a conviction against him.
However, shortly after Quaid’s rally appearance, a Manhattan jury found Trump guilty of 34 felony counts related to falsifying business records. Trump has also faced several civil cases, including one where a jury determined he had sexually abused and defamed E. Jean Carroll.
When asked if liking Trump is essential to voting for him, Quaid was clear: “No.” He acknowledged the problematic statements Trump has made in the past, saying, “In the last campaign, I found myself saying ‘oh please don’t do that.’”
Despite his criticisms, Quaid has now declared Trump as “My favorite president of the 21st century,” a title he also held for Ronald Reagan, who he referred to as his favorite from the previous century. This statement contrasts sharply with Trump’s own rhetoric about America being in a state of decline.
Quaid’s comments suggest a complicated relationship with Trump. He called for Americans to “pick a side” between standing for the Constitution or “TikTok,” making it unclear where he stands on certain issues, especially given Trump’s past statements advocating for the termination of constitutional rules.
Overall, Quaid’s endorsement of Trump and his remarks at the rally reflect a complex and sometimes contradictory view of the current political landscape.