(Conservative CA Assemblyman, R. Whip) Rick Keene gives Arnold (Schwarzenegger)thumbs up

The Union.com ^ | Oct. 3, 2003 | Jamie Bate

[FairOpinion]

Although Assemblyman Rick Keene identifies more with the conservative politics of his Republican Party colleague state Sen. Tom McClintock, the Chico-based politician announced Thursday that he is backing gubernatorial hopeful Arnold Schwarzenegger.

Keene, who represents Nevada County, said in a press release Thursday that he identifies closely with McClintock's "conservative philosophy." But political pragmatism is what appears to be driving his endorsement.

"I believe that at this critical time, we must unite behind the strongest candidate who can actually seize this unique opportunity to restore real management to California state government," Keene said. "The Davis/Bustamante regime cannot be allowed to continue."

State Sen. Sam Aanestad, meanwhile, has chosen to stay out of the fray, according to his chief of staff, Brett Michelin.

"He's not endorsing a candidate," Michelin said.

Keene staff member Cliff Wagner conceded that his boss's endorsement of Schwarzeneggar could alienate some of his conservative constituents, but he pointed out that the assemblyman waited less than a week before the election to back a candidate. At this point, he said, it is Schwarzeneggar who has the greatest chance of winning.

"Without question, there are always those who take issue with your decision," Wagner said.

"At this stage, it is time to close the ranks."

Keene serves as an Assembly Republican whip and represents all or part of seven counties - Nevada, Sierra, Placer, Yuba, Butte, Plumas and Lassen.

[FairOpinion]

""I believe that at this critical time, we must unite behind the strongest candidate who can actually seize this unique opportunity to restore real management to California state government," Keene said. "The Davis/Bustamante regime cannot be allowed to continue."

"At this stage, it is time to close the ranks." "

Anybody listening?

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[FairOpinion]

ping

[Amerigomag]

Another Republican who doesn't want to be left at the station when the GOP train heads to Sacramento on Oct 8.

[DoctorZIn]

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[Chancellor Palpatine]

"Real management" is the phrase to look at. They're looking for executive competence, not ideology.