California governor raises money to contest possible recall campaign

California governor. Gavin Newsom (Marcio Jose Sanchez/AP)

California Governor Gavin Newsom looks likely to face a recall election that could oust the Democrat before his first term ends.

The announcement that Mr Newsom was beginning to raise money to defend his seat seemed to confirm that he believes organisers behind the recall have collected sufficient petition signatures to place the proposal on the ballot.