In this Sept. 7, 2019, file photo, San Diego Mayor Kevin Faulconer speaks during the California Republican fall convention in Indian Wells. AP photo/Chris Carlson, file photo
Michael R. BloodAP Political WriterFormer San Diego Mayor Kevin Faulconer established a political committee Monday, Jan. 4, to begin raising money for a possible run for governor, kicking off what could be a tumultuous year in California politics as Gov. Gavin Newsom faces the threat of a recall election.In a brief statement on Twitter, the moderate Republican who served two terms in the Democratic-leaning city said there is “no better way to ring in the new year than taking the first step in turning around California.”Faulconer stopped short of formally declaring his candidacy, but the formation of the committee will allow him to begin collecting checks to help finance a potential campaign. In a tweet two days ago, he said, “We need a new governor. Jobs are leaving;
