George Clooney used his platform at the Venice Film Festival to criticize the current U.S. administration, labeling it a "kakistocracy"—a government run by the least qualified people—and praised his wife, human rights lawyer Amal Clooney, for her legal achievements.
Clooney, who received the Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement, spoke about the current state of American politics. "We have had some other difficult times, but this is one of them," he stated. He expressed hope for restoration through the upcoming November elections and further in 2028. The Oscar-winning actor further described the Trump administration as "cruel," asserting that basic standards of decency have vanished from public life. He referenced a tweet by U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth that appeared to mock the appearance of a female Canadian soldier, questioning the "sense of decency." Clooney drew parallels between the current era and turbulent periods in U.S. history, such as 1968, when cities faced unrest and the nation lost leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. and Bobby Kennedy.
Amidst his political commentary, Clooney also celebrated his wife. "My wife's the only person to have ever put ISIS on trial and won," he said, referring to Amal Clooney's work representing Yazidi survivors and holding ISIS members accountable for genocide. He described her as a "badass" who "gets the job done."
Amal Clooney, a British-Lebanese human rights lawyer, was also present at the festival, opting for a sequined mini dress for an evening out with her husband. The couple arrived by private boat, with Amal receiving assistance as she disembarked.
Clooney also addressed the criticism actors sometimes face for speaking out on political and human rights issues. "I didn't give away my freedom of speech the minute I became an actor," he stated, acknowledging that such stances can lead to public backlash. He noted that he receives criticism, even from the President, but is able to handle it. "You can't demand freedom of speech and then say, 'But don't say bad s*** about me.' Right? That's the deal."