Ben Affleck Says There's 'Nobody Alive' Who Believes US Politics is Going Well — And Explains Why He Won't Personally Run for Office

Former Batman actor Ben Affleck revealed his refusal to run for political office, despite acknowledging widespread dissatisfaction with the current state of U.S. politics. Affleck, who is set to star in a political thriller on Netflix as a Los Angeles mayoral candidate, explained that there's no one alive today who believes the political system is functioning well.

The actor urged that people stop asking about his qualifications for public office and instead, focus on the collective disappointment in American politics. Affleck, a lifelong Democrat, highlighted issues such as the focus on money and ad hominem attacks, rather than substantive discussions on issues. He criticized the current political landscape and claimed that leadership is lacking, arguing that politicians should inspire rather than scare or guilt people into voting for them.

Affleck ultimately decided to remain an actor, finding the job to be a difficult grind, and preferred to make movies about it instead of entering politics.