Matthew McConaughey has ruled out running for Texas governor in 2022.
In a video posted to Instagram on Sunday night, the Oscar-winning actor announced he would not be making a bid for political office. He has been publically considering running against the Republican incumbent Gov. Greg Abbott since November last year.
"Over the past two years, I've been working on the answer to the question of how I can be most useful in this life, going forward. Useful to myself, useful to my family, and to the most amount of people. One category of service I've been exploring is politics," said the 52-year-old actor in the video, in which he is flanked by USA and Texas flags.
He went on to talk about studying Texan and American politics, saying he had learned, "that we have some problems we need to fix. That our politics needs new purpose. That we have divides that need healing. That we gotta start shining a light on our shared values - the ones that cross party lines, the ones that build bridges, instead of burn 'em."
Recent polls suggested that the Dallas Buyers Club actor would make a popular choice. A poll by the Dallas Morning News revealed that 45 percent of people surveyed would vote for him as governor, while only 33 percent choice incumbent governor Abbott.
However, he concluded that while the thought of a political career was "humbling and inspiring", it is also a "path I am choosing not to take at this moment."
Instead, the actor described how he will: "Continue to invest the bounty I have in supporting entrepreneurs, businesses and foundations that I believe are leaders; establishments that I believe are creating pathways for people to succeed in life; organizations that have a mission to serve and build trust while also generating prosperity. That's the American dream."
The actor signed off by urging people to celebrate their personal freedom: "So to the leaders and servants out there, and the leaders and servants in each one of us, cheers to you. Here's to the freedom to be you. The freedom to be me. And to our responsibility to be us."
Earlier this year, McConaughey told a Housten-based podcast host that running for Texas governor was a "true consideration". While his decision not to run may appear, final, some of his followers are less convinced.
"McConaughey for President 2024," wrote one.
"Wait a few years then go for President," added another.