With a newer, more contagious COVID-19 variant now spreading across the globe, face coverings and vaccinations are needed now, more than ever. Unfortunately, there is still a (very loud) minority that spreads misinformation and refuses to accept the recommended preventative measures in place.

The anti-mask movement continues to hold traction, despite the wave of evidence supporting the need for face coverings. Many high profile people have spoken out against the movement and this week, Arnold Schwarzenegger is the latest voice of reason.

The six-time ‘Mr. Olympia’ champion has always been supportive of science in regards to health and fitness. Arnold’s also known for speaking his mind and doesn’t take nonsense from anyone. This time, the former governor of California and ‘Terminator’ star is coming after the anti-mask movement and their dangerous views.

In a recent interview with Bianna Golodryga of CNN, and former National Security Council member Alexander Vindman, Arnold shared his opinions on COVID-19 misinformation and anti-maskers in the US. As the fringe movement claims that wearing face masks takes away their freedom, Arnold calls them out, and then expertly shuts them down with an analogy of what ‘real freedom’ is.

Read on for the full story.

Arnold recently shared his views on COVID-19 misinformation and anti-maskers

Image credits: Schwarzenegger

With the rise of COVID-19 over the last couple of years, the world has had to adjust to a new normal. From lockdowns, social distancing and the need for face masks, most have accepted these new measures as being beneficial to our health and those around us.

Nonetheless, there are always people who want to put their own interests ahead of others. In this case, the anti-mask movement believes that their subjective opinions are better than the objective medical facts.

They have expressed themselves with protests and we’ve seen them clash many times with those who are simply following the recommendations of health professionals. You know, the people that focus their life into helping us stay healthy?

Thankfully, plenty of people have called out the anti-maskers, and rightfully so. Bored Panda has previously shared the best times that anti-maskers have been shut down, but the battle still continues. Many celebrities are using their own platforms to spread awareness on the issue.

He had strong opinions on people who refuse to wear face masks

And Arnold Schwarzenegger has always been a consistent supporter of medical reason. Aside from his star power as an action hero, he’s also influential for his background in fitness training and body-building. At the age of 74, he’s still in top physical condition and shows no signs of slowing down. He definitely knows a thing or two about staying in shape.

So, to continue staying healthy and to protect against COVID-19, Arnold received the vaccine himself. And with a classic quote from his character in ‘Terminator II’, has encouraged others to go with him “if you want to live”.

Currently, 50% of US citizens are fully vaccinated against COVID-19, but millions more remain. Arnold continues to support the drive for vaccinations and the need for face masks.  Here, you can see his latest interview with reporter Bianna Golodryga, and former United States Army Lieutenant Colonel, Alexander Vindman. They discuss people who are in denial about the virus, COVID-19 misinformation and the anti-mask movement.

Arnold compared wearing protective face masks to traffic lights

A running theme in the US movement has been the belief that masks and lockdowns encroach on individuals’ rights and freedom. From the video, you can see exactly what Arnold thinks of people who disrespect medical advice and flaunt the rules.

Watch the full interview below

Image credits: Arnold Schwarzenegger

Here’s what people had to say about Arnold’s speech

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