Desperate Housewives star Eva Longoria has talked politics during her meeting with New Zealand media today.
Longoria is one of US President Barack Obama's most prominent supporters and co-chair of his re-election campaign.
"We just passed ten million donations," she told reporters.
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The actress and political activist arrived in New Zealand today to help launch The Shopping Channel.
"Ten million people have donated to his campaign, whereas if you look on the Republican side, maybe five people have donated the majority of the money," she said.
Longoria told media she had been politically active since she was 17.
"In the first Clinton campaign I volunteered," she said. "My political activism has evolved."
"I was civically involved long before I was famous.
"'So it was a natural evolution for me."
Longoria said she believed Obama had the best vision for the United States and that she cared deeply about her country.
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Stage managed meeting
Media were handed copies of two pre-approved questions vetted by her management in advance of the meeting.
They were also under clear instructions as to just when they could speak in the staged managed appearance.
However the 37-year-old star says vetting questions and
pre-preparing her answers is all part of the job.
"It's absolutely necessary, every single celebrity does it and
politicians."
In July, Longoria told Parade magazine that she had wrongly assumed finishing on Desperate Housewives would allow her more free time, but that her work schedule had been busy.
"I just want to work with people that I love and enjoy. And do work that is meaningful, philanthropically as well. As things go on, those are my focuses," Parade quoted her as saying.
It is understood she was paid $100,000 for her appearance on the new channel.
Upon arrival into New Zealand, she tweeted: "Just landed in New Zealand! Sooo beautiful here! Can't wait to see everybody for the launch of The Shopping Channel New Zealand!"
She followed it with an appeal: "Now that I am here in New Zealand what must I see in Auckland? Suggestions Kiwis??"
Suggestions posted include visiting the Sky Tower, Auckland Museum and a Remuera cafe.
Late last night she posted on her Facebook page: "Boarding my flight for New Zealand! So excited for 14 hours of sleep! See you guys when I land!"
New Zealand fashion house Ruby said on their Facebook page that Longoria visited their Newmarket store today.
Longoria split from ex-husband Tony Parker in November 2010 and confirmed last month that she was dating New York Jets quarterback Mark Sanchez.