Ex-eBay CEO Weighs Run for Calif. Governor

Whitman's billions attract attention from Schwarzenegger's party
By Nick McMaster,  Newser Staff
Posted Jan 25, 2008 1:45 PM CST
Ex-eBay CEO Weighs Run for Calif. Governor
California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, accompanied by several state and local officials including state Insurance Commissioner Steve Poizner, far left, and Orange County Sheriff Michael Carona, far right, speaks at a news conference in Orange, Calif., Saturday, Oct. 27, 2007. (AP Photo/Reed Saxon)   (Associated Press)

Meg Whitman, who is resigning as eBay’s CEO after 10 years, is considering running for governor of California as a Republican, the LA Times reports. Whitman became “fascinated” by politics while bundling donations for ex-colleague Mitt Romney, a source says, and some California Republicans like her executive chops and deep pockets.

"She brings very strong private sector experience to the table, and her involvement in politics gives her a potential base of support," says an ex-GOP consultant. Whitman’s billions could easily fund her campaign, but her scant political experience could be a liability. She also faces potential competition from fellow Silicon Valley billionaire Steve Poizner, the State insurance commissioner. (More Meg Whitman stories.)

Get the news faster.
Tap to install our app.
X
Install the Newser News app
in two easy steps:
1. Tap in your navigation bar.
2. Tap to Add to Home Screen.

X