Gavin Newsom launches Exploratory Committee for Governor

by Brian Leubitz [courtesy of Calitics - Front Page]

Shocking news out of San Francisco, Gavin Newsom is setting up an exploratory committee to run for Governor! Not shocked? Well, I guess that's to be expected. Interestingly, this was the first year that Gavin took the stage at SF Pride and was actively involved. In previous years, he would hang out in the background. But, good on him for stepping up this year.  From the LA Times:

San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom, who built a national reputation pushing cutting-edge -- and controversial -- policies on same-sex marriage, healthcare and other issues, today launched an exploratory bid for governor.

His move placed the 40-year-old, two-term mayor out in front of a large Democratic field eyeing the race to succeed Republican Arnold Schwarzenegger, who is barred by term limits from running again in 2010. Newsom said he expected to decide by year's end whether to proceed with a full-fledged candidacy. (LAT 7/01/08)

I must admit that I am a bit surprised about the timing. He was slightly less obvious about his ambition than Jerry Brown, who practically begged for votes based on his experience. Get ready for a long battle, folks.