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The renowned actor Antonio Banderas shared his views on Donald Trump's re-election in the U.S. presidential elections during an interview with El Hormiguero. His statements have sparked a heated debate on social media, with divided reactions between those who support the American president and those who criticize him.
In the program hosted by Pablo Motos, Banderas pointed out that money could have been a key factor in Trump's victory, emphasizing that "he is a man who doesn’t squeeze on taxes, and probably everything goes along those lines." He also reflected on political polarization in the world, mentioning that the phenomenon is not limited to a single ideological spectrum: "Things have become extraordinarily polarized both to the left and to the right, and what would likely make the most sense would be centrist policies; however, that is not the case."
The actor also referred to the 'incomprehensible' nature of "Trump's rise to power" and Nicolás Maduro's continued authority in Venezuela, stating, "but people are experiencing things that are incomprehensible, and this type of politician we have globally is becoming increasingly frightening."
Banderas also warned about the risks posed by leaders with disruptive rhetoric and emphasized that Trump has gone "much further" than he promised during his campaign: "This man has entered like an elephant in a china shop, it's very dangerous (...) People voted for one thing, and he has gone much further in the first three days, saying things that make you wonder how it's possible."
Moreover, he mentioned that Europe's role on the global stage seems to have weakened, emphasizing that "Europe at this moment has taken on an extraordinarily clueless expression, not knowing what role we really should be playing."
He also mentioned a conversation with actor Richard Gere at the recent Goya Awards: "He told me, 'He jumped in skipping and overshooting his own electoral program.'"
Reactions on social media: Support and criticism for Banderas
Banderas' statements have garnered extensive coverage in Spanish media and a wave of comments on social networks, where his words were interpreted in various ways. One user questioned his stance by asking, "What do you have to say about Sánchez, Banderas?" suggesting that the actor should critique the President of Spain with the same fervor. Another person pointed out, "You don’t understand how Trump won, but you don’t talk about how Sánchez remains in power," highlighting concerns among some regarding Spanish politics.
One of Trump's supporters defended his victory by stating that "he does what's best for the U.S. Sánchez does what's best for himself," while another emphasized that "Trump won because people were fed up with taxes and crime."
Banderas' mention of Maduro also sparked mixed reactions: "Comparing Maduro to Trump is an insult," said one person, while another argued, "Maduro didn't win elections, Trump did; how ignorant."
In contrast, other users praised the actor's intervention. One follower expressed, "I enjoy listening to this man more and more," highlighting his perspective on political polarization. Similarly, someone commented, "Antonio, how sensible, a very accurate analysis," reinforcing the perception that the actor provided a thoughtful and well-argued analysis.
However, Trump's defense was strong in several sectors. One comment stated that "Trump doesn't put pressure on taxes because he doesn't waste money on the UN, WHO, NATO..." in an attempt to justify the president’s economic management. Another user emphasized that "Trump was democratically elected, Maduro was not," reinforcing the idea that the two cases are not comparable.
A debate that never ceases
Banderas' statements have reignited the debate about Trump and the global political landscape. While some see him as a solution to America's problems, others believe his governing style poses a threat to stability. One user summarized this viewpoint by stating, "This man tells the truth, but many do not want to hear it," while another asserted, "Trump represents the common sense that has been lost in today’s politics."
For the moment, Antonio Banderas has not responded to the criticisms nor made any additional statements on the subject.
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