LOS ANGELES -- Ozzy Osbourne has declared his intent to be put on the ballot as a candidate for the Governor of California. Osbourne, who will run as an independent, is the latest high-profile figure to line up against the beleaguered Governor Gray Davis.

Coming on the heels of speculation that Arnold Schwarzenegger might run for the governorship, Osbourne's declaration will inevitably stir protests from the state's conservative elements. Supporters cited pro wrestler Jesse Ventura's successful run for the governorship of Minnesota.