Hollywood actor Arnold Schwarzenegger has declared his candidacy for the governorship of California.
A long-time supporter of the Republican party, the 56-year-old Austrian born star will take his place in the 'recall' election this autumn, which is held on the same day as the decision on the continuing position as governor of the current holder, Democrat Gray Davis.
The vote was ordered after more than 1,300,000 people backed a petition calling for Governor Davis to face the electorate as he came under severe public criticism over California's worsening economic crisis.
Married to Kennedy clan member Maria Shriver, Mr Schwarzenegger announced his decision on the 'Tonight' show with Jay Leno on NBC television.
Springer will not run
But in Ohio, the controversial US television host, Jerry Springer, has abandoned his bid to run for the American Senate next year.
The 59-year-old former Mayor of Cincinatti said yesterday that he thought he could not build up the necessary credibility with voters in Ohio while still hosting his show.
