A former Facebook executive won't be running for governor, despite strong overtures and big donations to a ongoing recall effort.
Chamath Palihapitiya, a Silicon Valley venture capitalist who's financially supported growing statewide efforts to recall Gov. Gavin Newsom, told the "The All-In Podcast" he isn't a candidate for the job.
"Let's be really honest. I'm not ready to do any of that," he said.
At least, it looked that way for a while.
Palihapitiya had launched what appeared to be a campaign website. He's currently the CEO of venture capital firm Social Capital and a minority stakeholder in the Golden State Warriors. At Facebook, Palihapitiya's LinkedIn listed positions as Vice President, User Growth (Mobile & International) and Vice President, Platform & Monetization.
Chamath Palihapitiya of Social+Capital Partnership speaks onstage with Leena Rao of TechCrunch at the TechCrunch Disrupt NY 2013 at The Manhattan Center on April 29, 2013 in New York City.Brian Ach/Getty Images
Palihapitiya had not filed any official paperwork for a gubernatorial run, according to SFGate. The publication reported "tens of thousands of dollars" in donations to state Democratic parties over the last year.
"California is a mess - it's too expensive, our teachers are underpaid, and our schools aren't good enough," Palihapitiya's website said.
Under a "Let's Move California Forward" banner, several policy proposals are listed, including a minimum $70,000 salary for teachers, free school vouchers, no student loans and a zero percent state tax, among others.
While a recall effort against Gov. Newsom is gaining steam, it's not certain the campaign will gather enough signatures to make it to a vote.
