Hollywood star Mel Gibson found himself at the center of California's political landscape as speculation about his potential gubernatorial candidacy emerged.
According to DailyWire, the "Braveheart" actor is "flattered" by his 12% lead in a recent Republican straw poll but has no intention of running for California governor amid efforts to recall Governor Gavin Newsom.
The Lost Coast Outpost poll, which surveyed 2,640 respondents, placed Gibson ahead of Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco, who received 11% of the votes. Former Vice President Kamala Harris and former congresswoman Katie Porter dominated the overall results with 20% and 25% of the votes respectively.
Gibson's publicist, Alan Nierob, confirmed to the California Globe that the actor would maintain his focus on his entertainment career. The 69-year-old actor's unexpected political popularity follows his vocal criticism of the current state administration.
At a recent Newsom recall event, Gibson expressed his frustration with the state's handling of devastating wildfires. The actor, who lost his home in the Palisades Fire and Eaton Fire, joined numerous affected residents in condemning the government's response.
Gibson specifically addressed the crowd about the state's high taxation and inadequate emergency preparedness. He emphasized how California's deteriorating conditions have affected various sectors, including the film industry.
During his appearance at the Los Angeles press conference, Gibson delivered a passionate speech about the state's leadership failures. The actor highlighted the impact of recent disasters on California residents and the exodus of insurance carriers from the region.
Gibson said:
Governor Newsom and Karen Bass let us all down. Now for that kind of money, we deserve much more and much better, and there is absolutely no adequate excuse the governor or mayor can make for this gross mismanagement and failure to preemptively deal with what they knew was coming.
The actor's criticism extended beyond the wildfire response to broader issues affecting California. He addressed the state's increasing crime rates, homelessness crisis, and economic challenges under the current administration.
The recall effort, organized by Saving California, has gained momentum following the recent wildfires and mounting public dissatisfaction. The movement focuses on addressing the state's economic challenges and leadership concerns.
Gibson's involvement in the recall campaign has brought increased attention to the initiative. His personal experience with the wildfires and subsequent property loss has resonated with many affected California residents.
The actor's criticism particularly resonated with the entertainment industry professionals, as he pointed out California's diminishing status as a filming destination. This perspective has added weight to the ongoing debate about the state's economic direction.
The recall movement against Governor Newsom continues to gather support following the devastating wildfires in southern California. Mel Gibson, despite emerging as a leading Republican figure in recent polls, has officially declined any interest in pursuing the governorship. The actor's involvement in the recall campaign stems from his personal experience with the state's wildfire crisis and property loss. While Gibson maintains his position in the entertainment industry, his criticism of state leadership has contributed to the growing discourse about California's future under its current administration.
