Actor Arnold Schwarzenegger's campaign to become governor of California is facing more problems as he admitted being inspired by disgraced former US President Richard Nixon.
The
Terminator
star said he had supported the Republican Party since hearing Nixon speak in 1968, several years before he was forced to quit the White House during the Watergate scandal.
"I listened to President Nixon talk about free enterprise ... lowering taxes and strengthening the military," he said. "So I turned to my friend and said 'I am a Republican!'. This is the philosophy I believe in."
Political pundits said the comments were meant to appeal to conservative voters but could backfire by linking Schwarzenegger with Nixon's sleazy reputation.
The Hollywood hard man's hopes of a landslide victory in next month's poll have already been hit by a surprise strong showing from his main Democratic rival, Mr Cruz Bustamante.
Schwarzenegger has also been criticised for refusing to take part in the first debate featuring all the other leading candidates in the race to replace California governor Mr Gray Davis.
He has agreed to participate in one debate later this month but only after an agreement that questions would be provided in advance, giving him time to prepare answers.
Schwarzenegger has also faced allegations he made a comment supporting South Africa's apartheid system 28 years ago. Last week he had to apologise for a 1977 magazine interview in which he boasted of taking drugs and participating in orgies.
AP