Dennis Quaid Says U.S. Politics Have Shifted “Too Far Left,” Calls Himself a “Common-Sense Independent”

Veteran actor Dennis Quaid believes American politics have moved too far to the left in recent years.

The 71-year-old star shared his thoughts during an appearance on The Greg Laurie Show, hosted by Pastor Greg Laurie. Their conversation touched on Hollywood, political identity, and the current state of the country.

“You Can’t Do That”

Laurie suggested that the political climate has become so polarized that even moderate Democrats are being labeled extremists. He referenced a recent conversation involving Bill Maher and Dana Carvey, where Carvey reportedly joked that identifying as a “Clinton Democrat” in Hollywood today could get someone called a Nazi.

Quaid responded bluntly: “You can’t do that.”

He agreed that political labels have shifted dramatically. “What used to be, you can’t be anymore,” Quaid said, adding that being a Clinton-era Democrat is now seen by some as being on the political right.

Despite his views, Quaid said he does not consider himself a Republican. Instead, he described himself as a “common-sense independent” who leans more conservative in his thinking.

“I’m just for common sense, is really what I am,” he said.

Views on Donald Trump

The discussion also turned to President Donald Trump. Laurie described Trump as personable, funny, and surprisingly approachable.

Quaid agreed, saying Trump is “very funny” and “really genuine.” He added that Trump’s supporters believe he has their best interests at heart.

“He wouldn’t be president if he wasn’t genuine,” Quaid said. “I’ve never seen anybody with that kind of energy.”

Quaid also shared a lighter moment from his visits to the White House. While he has not stayed in the Lincoln Bedroom, he said he once stayed in the Queen’s Bedroom during Bill Clinton presidency. One detail stood out: “They serve instant coffee in the morning,” he said with a laugh. “Pretty bad coffee.”

Bringing Humanity to Ronald Reagan

Quaid recently portrayed Ronald Reagan in the 2024 biopic Reagan. He said that while preparing for the role, he focused on showing Reagan as a person — not just a political figure.

“I tried to get past the event, and get to the human of it,” Quaid explained. That included portraying Reagan’s facial nerve damage and physical mannerisms, not just his public persona.

A “Spiritual Revolution”

Toward the end of the interview, Quaid suggested that the country may be going through what he called a “spiritual revolution.”

“I’m not talking Republican and Democrat,” he clarified. Instead, he said he hopes for a coming together of Americans across political lines.

While his political comments may spark debate, Quaid framed his views around what he sees as a need for balance, common sense, and unity in a deeply divided political landscape.