The actor was in Sacramento on Tuesday to promote a series of online videos opposing Proposition 23.
The spots will run on YouTube. They're meant to appeal to young voters.
In a one-minute video titled "Don't Mess With California," /*Arquette*/ portrays California and proceeds to knock out a group of thugs representing Texas oil interests.
/*Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger*/ has characterized Proposition 23 as a battle between out-of-state oil interests and environmental progress.
Arquette is part of a well-known Hollywood family and is best known for his recurring role in the "Scream" films. This is the first time he's been actively involved in a political campaign, he said.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.