Gavin Newsom Adds Arnold Schwarzenegger to California Hall of Fame

After initially leaving the former Republican governor off the list, Newsom reverses course and includes Schwarzenegger in the 19th class of inductees.

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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California Governor Gavin Newsom has unveiled the latest class of inductees into the California Hall of Fame, which includes former Republican Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. Newsom had initially left Schwarzenegger's name off the list, sparking questions of political payback due to Schwarzenegger's opposition to Newsom's congressional redistricting push. However, Newsom has now reversed course and included Schwarzenegger, describing him as "a singular figure in California history, embodying the Golden State's promise of opportunity."

Why it matters

The inclusion of Arnold Schwarzenegger, a prominent Republican, in the California Hall of Fame after initially being left off the list signals a potential thawing of political tensions between Newsom and the former governor. It also highlights the enduring legacy and influence of Schwarzenegger in California politics and culture.

The details

Newsom's office described Schwarzenegger as "a singular figure in California history, embodying the Golden State's promise of opportunity." The 19th class of inductees also includes Hollywood actress Jamie Lee Curtis, Olympic athletes Janet Evans and Carl Lewis, and Nobu restauranteur Nobuyuki Matsuhisa. They will be formally inducted during a ceremony at the California Museum in Sacramento on March 19, 2026.

  • Newsom unveiled the list of inductees on Tuesday.
  • The 19th class of inductees will be formally inducted on March 19, 2026.

The players

Gavin Newsom

The current Governor of California, who unveiled the list of California Hall of Fame inductees.

Arnold Schwarzenegger

The former Republican Governor of California, who was initially left off the list of inductees but has now been included in the 19th class.

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What they’re saying

“From humble beginnings, he built himself into a world champion bodybuilder, Hollywood icon, successful businessman, environmentalist, philanthropist, bestselling author, and the 38th Governor of California.”

— Gavin Newsom, Governor of California (Press release)

What’s next

The 19th class of inductees will be formally inducted into the California Hall of Fame during a ceremony at the California Museum in Sacramento on March 19, 2026.

The takeaway

The inclusion of Arnold Schwarzenegger, a prominent Republican, in the California Hall of Fame after initially being left off the list signals a potential thawing of political tensions between Newsom and the former governor. It also highlights Schwarzenegger's enduring legacy and influence in California politics and culture.