Ben Affleck says political failure left him disillusioned

Ben Affleck has stated that he has no interest in running for public office, describing the prospect of becoming a politician as "terrible" and "tawdry." The 54-year-old actor made these comments while promoting his upcoming film, "Animals," in which he portrays a candidate for the mayor of Los Angeles. In an interview with Variety, Affleck explained that political narratives are often used as parables for moral compromise, highlighting the contrast between idealistic self-images and the reality of life. He characterized politics as a "very depressing world" that holds no appeal for him.

Affleck declined to disclose whether he is backing a specific candidate for the Los Angeles mayoral race in November. He noted that his involvement in the film might influence public perception, stating that he should remain agnostic until the movie is released. During a Wednesday appearance on Good Morning America, Affleck argued that the standards in politics have lowered significantly due to the evolution of the political environment. He observed that voters are seeking direct answers but feel that the system is failing them, a sentiment he said exists across party lines among both Democrats and Republicans.

The actor described the experience of playing a mayoral candidate as less enjoyable than expected, noting that the role involves constant fundraising. In a promotional stunt, Affleck and the actor playing his campaign manager in the film went out in Los Angeles wearing campaign shirts and hats for his character. Affleck reported that people approached him for selfies and launched into political discussions, leading him to joke that he might accidentally win the election if he were not careful. He told a camera during the stunt, "Do not vote for me for mayor!"

In an interview with USA Today via The Sacramento Bee, Affleck called holding public office an "awful job." He expressed being "so disillusioned with the system and with politics and politicians, and the way it works." When told his campaign ad in the movie was effective, he responded that he would be flattered but noted the low bar in modern politics. Affleck explained that "Animals" explores how individuals make moral compromises when they have something to lose. He posed the question of whether people are self-seeking animals who rationalize their actions or if they possess a higher self that adheres to a moral code despite personal cost.

Affleck has previously been politically active, campaigning for candidates including former Vice President Al Gore and former President Barack Obama. However, he now describes himself as "averse" to political involvement due to what he sees as widespread "hypocrisy, corruption and failure." He criticized the current structure of politics for being geared around money, sound bites, and cruelties that are disconnected from people's lives. Affleck stated that it has become easier to gain votes by appealing to the worst in people rather than their best. He concluded that stories about morality and compromise face constant pressures to sacrifice principles.