In a candid interview with Rolling Stone, renowned actor Robert De Niro expressed profound concerns about the potential resurgence of former President Donald Trump in the political arena. The interview, conducted on December 20, 2023, saw the 80-year-old actor delivering a blunt message, advocating for decisive measures to prevent another four years under Trump’s leadership.
De Niro left no room for ambiguity as he fervently endorsed any viable option to thwart Trump’s political trajectory, stating, “We need anything to get rid of Trump.” The actor underscored the urgency of the situation, emphasizing the need for a strategic move to counter Trump’s influence, even suggesting the nomination of Republican candidate Nikki Haley as a potential contender.
Addressing President Joe Biden’s suitability to face Trump, De Niro offered a striking endorsement, declaring, “There’s no way that he’s not the guy to take Trump down.” The actor went on to assert that, in his view, Biden would be the ideal candidate, even comparing the president to a person on a gurney, emphasizing his unwavering support.
In a call to action, De Niro implored Americans to exercise their right to vote, highlighting the pivotal role citizens play in shaping the nation’s political landscape. The urgency of his plea reflected the gravity of the situation, framing the upcoming elections as a crucial turning point for the country.
The interview delved into various aspects of De Niro’s life, including his extensive film career and personal challenges. Notably, the actor shared his concerns about the current political climate, drawing parallels between Trump’s leadership and historical totalitarian regimes.
Reflecting on his evolving perception of Trump, De Niro admitted to initially hoping that Trump would “straighten out.” However, he now considers the former president “beyond dangerous” and urged people to recognize the potential consequences of Trump’s return to power.
De Niro also addressed Trump’s response to his previous criticism, emphasizing the significance of people responding to the former president. He cautioned against underestimating the potential challenges of a Trump presidency, referencing the events of the January 6 Capitol riot and Trump’s alleged attempts to remain in power as “unbelievable.”
In echoing the sentiments of former Rep. Liz Cheney, another vocal Trump critic, De Niro concluded the interview by stating, “He will not leave.” The actor’s words underscored the need for vigilance to safeguard democratic principles against potential erosion in the face of Trump’s influence.