One-On-One With Steve Westly

July 10 - KGO (KGO) -- In his first sitdown interview since losing the June primary, Steve Westly says he has no regrets. Not for spending all those personal millions, not for running those negative ads. The former eBay executive is now focused on getting as many Democrats as possible elected in November, including his former rival.

The California Republican Party's new ad hammers Democratic challenger Phil Angelides on his environmental record as a real estate developer.

Political Ad: "Cited by the EPA for bulldozing wetlands."

The strategy is right out of Steve Westly's playbook.

Steve Westly, D-State Controller: "They can run whatever campaign they want."

And they are, Westly now has a starring role in the Republican party's pro-Schwarzenegger ad.

Political Ad: "What if Steve Westly was right?"

ABC7's Nannette Miranda: "Were you right about Phil Angelides' development record?"

Steve Westly: "The fact is, Mr. Angelides has done some very positive things for the environment. I think he would be a stronger environmental governor."

Nannette Miranda: "Did you think Governor Schwarzenegger would be using your name and your strategy in his attempt to win a second term?"

Steve Westly: "Well I'm not a bit surprised. I'm glad the Republicans put so much stock in what I think."

And with the bitter Democratic primary now behind him, Westly is beginning to campaign for Angelides. Just last Friday, he joined Senator Hillary Clinton trying to turn out the Angelides vote.

But Westly, who spent $35 million of his personal fortune fighting Angelides, won't be dipping into his wallet to help him now.

Steve Westly: "Raising money is an important part of running for office and I'll certainly try to help him raise money to help him be successful in November."

Interestingly, Westly supports getting big money out of politics. Today he took a swipe at Angelides whose wealthy developer friends spent nearly $9 million in advertising just before the primary. Mostly to counter the Westly ads.

In the end, that might have put Angelides ahead.

Steve Westly: "We also need to take a very careful look at these things called Independent Expeditures... when money comes and people aren't quite sure who's supporting these ads you're seeing."

Westly leaves public office in January. He's weighing several offers from the private sector and may even go back to teaching a class or two. He might also consider a job with a foundation.

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