Matthew McConaughey is making calls about running for Texas Governor….

Could we have another actor/entertainer running for office?

We do not even know if this guy would run as Republican or Democrat…

But?

This sure will get media attention…

Most political strategists say they doubt McConaughey, a Texas native, will sacrifice his status as a beloved cultural icon in the state for the dirty business of politics. They don’t see a viable path forward, either, pointing to Republican Gov. Greg Abbott’s backing among the business community and millions in the bank — but the state’s political class is keeping a close eye on the Hollywood star’s plans nonetheless.

“I find it improbable, but it’s not out of the question,” said top Republican strategist Karl Rove, who relayed a recent encounter with Lawrence Wright, describing the New Yorker journalist as “hyperventilating” at the prospect that his close friend and fellow Texan might run. (Asked for comment on McConaughey, Wright replied in an email, “I’m trying to lower my profile in this, so I’ll politely decline.”)

Rumors have been swirling around a potential McConaughey run for months, and the actor has been less than coy about his interest in politics and public leadership. Despite his superstardom, McConaughey remains a Texas resident — he lives in Austin with his wife Camila and three children. He has become a kind of celebrity mascot for the state with his role in public service announcements during the coronavirus pandemic and his “just keep livin” foundation, which works with young people and has raised millions for victims of the devastating ice storm that hit Texas. At his alma mater, the University of Texas at Austin, he has been named “Minister of Culture” and is professor of practice at the Moody College of Communication.

“I’m a little more surprised that people aren’t taking him more seriously, honestly,” said Brendan Steinhauser, an Austin-based GOP strategist. “Celebrity in this country counts for a lot … it’s not like some C-list actor no one likes. He has an appeal.”

There’s little question that McConaughey — who became a household name for his starring roles in top films like “Dazed and Confused” and “Dallas Buyers Club,” delivering memorable lines in his signature languid drawl — would draw national media attention should he enter the race against Abbott….

More…

image…Vogue