But before that talk, she had a ten-minute interview with KTVU and discussed why she's prepared to spend $150 million or more to convince voters she would be a frugal governor.

"I've raised more money than any Republican in California history," said Whitman. "I'm doing it to convince voters California can be terrific again."

Whitman said she'll need the money to fend off attack ads. One such ad set to begin airing Wednesday accuses Whitman of cashing in $12 million in bonuses at eBay while laying off workers.

"There were some individuals who didn't meet our standards and they had to be let go," defended Whitman. "There were no large scale layoffs."

The democratic ads also accuse her of being out of touch with the common Californian, pointing out that she used a corporate jet for personal trips.

"I think people understand why a corporate jet is used," responded Whitman. "What I did was fully disclosed."

Whitman said the democratic ads point out the opposition is concerned.

Whitman has laid her goals as governor in a series of her own advertisements, stating she will get Californians working, improve schools and cut government spending. She said new technology could replace many bureaucratic tasks.

She wants to see 40,000 state jobs eliminated to help balance the budget.

"My background makes me uniquely qualified," said Whitman. "We can't keep spending money on things we can no longer afford."

When asked about the "tea party movement," Whitman replied that she supports their ideas of smaller government. She also defended Sarah Palin, calling her "a good running mate" for the McCain campaign in 2008.

At the Commonwealth Club gathering, Whitman received a warm welcome from the Lafayette audience. On Wednesday, the candidate heads to Southern California for more campaigning in what is shaping up to be a long and expensive race for governor.