Kasich talks up Schwarzenegger after 2020 endorsement

Ohio Gov. John Kasich (R) on Sunday said Arnold Schwarzenegger’s encouragement to run for president in 2020 “gives me a big lift,” but declined to address his future political plans.

“Well, you know, Arnold, his — his kind — those kind of words give me — it’s a strong level of support, right? It gives me a big lift, right?” Kasich said on CNN’s “State of the Union.”

“He’s a fantastic guy. He’s a natural leader. He’s a dear friend of mine. And he’s worried about our country, and I appreciate that,” he added.

{mosads}Schwarzenegger last week said he’s encouraged Kasich, 65, to run for the White House in 2020. The two appeared together at an event to launch a new advocacy group that aims to revive the GOP in California by focusing on centrist policies and issues.

Kasich on Sunday declined to further address speculation of his potential 2020 campaign, but lamented the amount of division in the country.

“I have always been very aggressive in promoting the things that I believe in. But I also want to say, Brianna, the most important thing now for leaders at all levels and in all spheres, bring people together,” he told CNN’s Brianna Keilar.

The Ohio governor, who ran for the Republican nomination in 2016, faces ongoing speculation that he will launch a bid in 2020 to challenge President Trump. His final term as governor ends in 2019.

He said earlier this month that “all options” are on the table for his future, and suggested the country might be headed toward a multiparty system.