Harrison Ford openly criticized former President Donald Trump, expressing deep concern about his administration’s approach to climate change and environmental issues. Speaking in a recent interview with The Guardian, Ford described the world’s state under Trump as
“going to hell in a handbasket,”
highlighting the urgent need for change.
Ford, known for his long-standing environmental advocacy, including serving as vice chair of Conservation International, condemned Trump for lacking genuine policies and instead acting on whims. He emphasized that Trump’s actions not only worsen global crises but also enrich the president personally at the world’s expense.
Strong Words Against Trump’s Climate Denial and Policy Rollbacks
The actor targeted Trump’s stance on renewable energy, mocking his opposition to wind turbines by suggesting that the president might only object because
“he has just not seen a gold one,”
alluding to Trump’s taste for gold decorations. Ford also referred to Trump’s dismissal of climate change as
“the greatest con job ever perpetrated on the world,”
echoing remarks the former president made at the United Nations.
Ford further explained that history will likely remember Trump’s approach to climate change as
“a clear expression of ignorance, of hubris and purposeful subterfuge,”
underlining the harm done through misinformation and deliberate obfuscation. He expressed alarm over the administration’s rollback of environmental protections, including withdrawal from the Paris Agreement and aggressive deregulation efforts via the Environmental Protection Agency.
Experience and Personal Connection Fuel Ford’s Urgency
Having portrayed U.S. presidents on screen, including in “Air Force One” and the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s “Captain America: Brave New World,” Ford brings a unique perspective to his critique of political leadership. His personal experience was deepened recently when he had to evacuate his Brentwood, California home amid severe wildfires, events he connects directly to climate change impacts.
“I knew it was coming. I have been preaching this stuff for 30 years,”
Ford said, pointing to the predictability of extreme weather events. He expressed frustration that scientific warnings have failed to spur sufficient behavioral change, citing resistance due to entrenched political and economic interests.
Hope for Future Climate Action and Political Change
Despite his harsh criticisms, Ford voiced hope that the tide can turn in favor of stronger climate protections. He believes Trump’s influence is waning as
“everything he says is a lie,”
and trusts that climate advocates will prevail in promoting effective policies, advancing technology, and encouraging public engagement.
Ford urged society to embrace its capacity for adaptation and innovation:
“We are incredibly adaptive, we are incredibly inventive. If we concentrate on a problem we can fix it most times,”
he said, emphasizing the importance of political will and intellectual commitment to address environmental challenges.
Ford’s Scathing Assessment of Trump’s Legacy
In his most severe condemnation, Ford labeled Trump as perhaps the worst criminal in history due to the catastrophic impact of his policies.
“I don’t know of a greater criminal in history,”
Ford declared, underscoring the gravity of what he views as betrayal on a global scale.
These remarks come as many observers continue to debate the environment-related consequences of Trump’s administration, reinforcing Ford’s role not only as an actor but also as a vocal environmental advocate determined to influence change.
