Matthew McConaughey Explores Possible Texas Gubernatorial Run

Hollywood film star Matthew McConaughey is actively exploring a Texas gubernatorial bid, placing calls to political allies in high places.

McConaughey appears to be taking charge behind the scenes, in an attempt to defeat Gov. Gregg Abbott (R), who is running for his third term.

In recent weeks, the actor has been making calls to influential people in Texas political circles. McConaughey has pressed potential donors on their views about the race during these calls. 

A report released on Sunday claims that the Dallas Buyer’s Club star has been “quietly making calls to influential people in Texas political circles.”

McConaughey, 51, was born in Uvalde, Texas, and lives in Austin, the state capital, with his wife Camila McConaughey and three children.

In March, he told a Texas podcast that running for governor was “a true consideration.” He first revealed his intentions in an episode of Crime Stoppers of Houston’s The Balanced Voice podcast.

Since then, he has still not confirmed whether or not he is going to run.

In November, when conservative talk radio host Hugh Hewitt asked the 51-year-old Oscar winner about whether he would consider a bid, he responded, “It would be up to the people more than it would me.”

McConaughey would face Abbott, who has strong support in local, federal and international business communities and millions in campaign financial reserves.

McConaughey — who became a household name for starring in hit films such as Dazed and Confused and Dallas Buyer’s Club — would draw national media attention if he enters the race.

The actor has not indicated which party he would run under.

Meanwhile, the Democratic Party has still does not have a clear frontrunner. Former Rep. Beto O’Rourke (D-Texas), whose 2018 Senate run against Ted Cruz (R-Texas) catapulted him into the national spotlight and a failed presidential bid, has yet to decide on whether or not he is going to enter the race.