Martin Sheen visited the University of Akron Monday April 21. He talked about his life, The West Wing, the election, the San Carlos Foundation and helping others. He answered questions from the audience and the media in an open forum style.

Who do you favor in this year’s election?
I am very fond of Bill Clinton. He was very supportive during The West Wing. He still calls me “my president” (chuckles). He did a great service to our country and my heart goes with the Clinton family but I am for Obama. I believe a storm is coming and he is ready.

As an advocate for humanitarian issues how many times have you been arrested?
At least 67 times for a variety of issues I was protesting: homelessness, peace, social justice issues. It was always non-violent and I always pray and always invited the police to join us. It disarms them.  I don’t go out of my way to get arrested, I don’t enjoy it, but it happens.

If you could be anything besides an actor what profession would you choose?
A teacher — teachers are my heroes.

What were your proudest moments on The West Wing?
Some of the story lines were taken from true life stories. There was a case with a black woman Congressman who died while in office and her husband was appointed in her place. Well, they had to vote on an issue and the man wasn’t cooperating and he said it was a matter of conscience and just because he was a democrat he couldn’t be counted upon to always vote the line. There was also an episode where Bartlett (his character ) was confronting loss and kind of had it out with God in the Cathedral.

Would you ever consider running for office from the Buckeye state?
I came into the state when Kerry was running and worked with the Bring Ohio Back campaign and was asked then if I would consider running. My reply was that I was honored but we must not mistake acting ability for credibility. It is not what I do and I have a lot more fun playing a politician. We tried it before with another old actor and it didn’t work out.