Donald Trump

‘The Rock' Gets to the Bottom of That Presidential Rumor

The actor wasn’t shy about suggesting a reason why so many people may want him running the country

It’s the story that keeps on running — that’s how Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson described the tenacious rumor that he'll run for president of the United States. But the thing is, he didn’t exactly deny the rumor.

Johnson sat down with Jimmy Fallon on the “Tonight Show” Thursday to talk about the possibility of America one day having the wrestler-turned-pop culture icon as president, an idea that drew enthusiastic cheers and applause from the studio audience.

“I’m so incredibly flattered,” Johnson said. “I’ve been blown away.”

The actor wasn’t shy about suggesting a reason why so many people may want him running the country.

“A lot of people want to see a different leadership today,” he said. “Or, I’m sorry, a better leadership today.”

“More poise, less noise,” Johnson added, sounding like a seasoned campaigner already.

The talk about Johnson running for president began last year when he joked about it with his 11.3 million Twitter followers. The conversation grew from there, with publications such as The Washington Post weighing Johnson's background, experience and political chops.

The issue may be getting more serious than just internet buzz. He told GQ for its June cover story that he was considering running

"I think that it's a real possibility," the "Baywatch" actor confessed.

On "Tonight," Johnson referred to a May 16 poll by Public Policy Polling that matched him up against President Donald Trump in a hypothetical 2020 election. The “Sexiest Man Alive” beat America’s current leader 42–37.

While Johnson remained humble at the thought of having so much support, he seemed confident — and proud — that he has the qualities voters crave.

“Over the years I’ve become a guy that a lot of people relate to,” he told Fallon. “Get up early in the morning at a ridiculous hour, go to work and spend time with the troops, take care of my family. I love taking care of people. That kind of thing really resonates with people, especially today.”

“Three and a half years is a long way away,” Johnson concluded. “So we’ll see.”

All political talk aside, Johnson’s appearance on the “Tonight” stage wasn’t without its fun. He and Fallon talked about the GQ story, which includes photos of Johnson frolicking on Los Angeles' Venice Beach, dressing as a butterfly, serving up some juice (with his shirt open, of course), and showing off matching tribal tattoos with some young fans.

And, in true “Rock” fashion, Johnson even walked onto the show with his cellphone in hand and recording, not completely unexpected for a guy who has more than 143 million Instagram and Facebook followers. Because the social media superstar is remaining coy, only time will tell if he’ll someday update those followers from the Oval Office.

Contact Us