In a historic election, Californians decided to recall Governor Gray Davis and replace him with political debutant Arnold Schwarzenegger.

The result of the recall will be officially declared later in the day but Davis has conceded defeat and becomes the first California governor and the second nationwide recalled from office.

After profusely thanking the people for their support, Schwarzenegger told supporters, "I will not fail you. I will not disappoint you. I will not let you down."

Schwarzenegger's candidature drew worldwide media attention to the recall campaign. Besides, California is the United States' most populated state with an economy bigger than that of most countries.

Adverse media reports about his attitude towards women towards the end of the campaign did not seem to have affected the prospects of the 56-year-old Terminator star.

An Austrian who immigrated to the US, Schwarzenegger is married to television journalist Maria Shriver, who is a member of the Kennedy clan.

Other major candidates in the fray were Democratic Lieutenant Governor Cruz Bustamante, Republican Senator Tom McClintock and Green Party candidate Peter Camejo.