Arnold Schwarzenegger

Schwarzenegger’s most notable accomplishments include a bipartisan agreement to reduce California's greenhouse gas emissions by signing landmark legislation in 2006, increasing the minimum wage while lowering the state's unemployment rate and overhauling the workers' compensation system - cutting costs by more than 35 percent. Schwarzenegger is the first governor in decades to make major investments in improving California's aging infrastructure through his Strategic Growth Plan, helping to reduce congestion and clean the air. He established the Hydrogen Highway and Million Solar Roofs Plan, continuing his leadership in creating a greener environment. Schwarzenegger has strongly promoted California grown products, cutting edge technologies and the state's diverse travel destinations. Schwarzenegger’s responsible fiscal policies have brought California back from the brink of bankruptcy, reinvigorating the economy, creating a better environment for business and creating nearly 700,000 new jobs. Improved state revenues have paid down the state's debt and afforded record investments in schools, roads and affordable healthcare for children. Schwarzenegger has committed himself to promoting physical education and after-school programs. In 2002, his support for Proposition 49, the After-School Education & Safety Act, led it to overwhelming victory. As Governor, he has aggressively worked to increase after-school funding, making California the first state in the nation to significantly invest in a comprehensive after-school program. Schwarzenegger also signed legislation making the state's school nutrition standards the most progressive in the nation. Schwarzenegger has dedicated his time, energy and personal finances to charitable organizations remaining closely involved in Special Olympics, an organization founded by Maria's mother, Eunice Kennedy Shriver. He was named Special Olympics International Weight Training Coach in 1979 and serves as a Global Ambassador. Former President George Bush appointed Schwarzenegger Chair of the President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports in 1990. He also served as Chair of the California Governor's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports under Governor Pete Wilson. Schwarzenegger was born in Austria in 1947, and at 20 became the youngest person to win the Mr. Universe title. He won an unprecedented 12 more world bodybuilding titles after coming to America. Schwarzenegger earned a college degree from the University of Wisconsin and became a U.S. citizen in 1983.