George Clooney, it’s understandable that you’re feeling hurt by the backlash after Kamala Harris’s defeat and the role some believe your July op-ed played in urging President Biden to step down. You’ve reportedly decided to step back from politics after being partly blamed for her loss. But here’s the reality: in politics, there’s no stepping back from accountability.
Your name was on the op-ed. You thought it was a good idea then, and now you get to deal with the fallout. That is the brutal nature of this arena—welcome to politics.
Politics is not Hollywood. It’s not a faux Roman Coliseum with pretend fighting. It’s a field where winners and losers are clearly defined, and the rules are unforgiving. It’s not a world of glamorous premieres, adoring fans, or carefully crafted narratives. In politics, every word you speak and every action you take is subject to public scrutiny, and the stakes are monumental. The arena doesn’t care about your resume as an actor, philanthropist, activist, or who you are married to. It’s hardball—relentless, unapologetic, and rough.
Yes, you’ve been a passionate advocate for important causes, and your voice carries significant weight. But when you enter the political fray, admiration gives way to accountability and shrewd, calculating decisions. It’s not for the faint-hearted, and no one—no matter how admired—is immune from criticism.
Your experience may help you appreciate your Hollywood colleagues who dare to endorse Republican candidates and then face hostile ostracism from left-leaning actors, directors, and producers. The criticism you’re dealing with now is part of what you sign up for when you stick your neck out in this business.
There’s plenty of blame to go around for Harris’s loss, but your op-ed put you squarely in the spotlight. Whether or not you feel the criticism is fair, this is politics—rough, personal, and relentless.
If you’re going to participate, you’ll need thick skin, steady resolve, and acceptance that you’ll be celebrated and criticized in this field.
That’s the price of playing the game.
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Hector Barajas is a nationally recognized expert in public affairs and public relations and a political and legislative analyst for Univision and Telemundo. www.Amplify360inc.com
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