Replies

Your analysis is spot on, Wolfstar. I couldn't agree more, nor add to what you've said. I like your reference to the Republican "bell curve." The fact that the center of the curve has flattened out some, and the two ends of the curve have risen a bit. I think that's exactly what's happened. In 1966, Reagan's positive message, strength of character, and personality was able to hold all factions together (same in 1980). It's going to take someone like Reagan to bring Ca GOPs together, and reach out to enough independents, to really bring back the California Rep. Party. The problem with McClintock (as with most "true conservatives") is that he is a policy wonk -- right on all the issues, but lacking that indefinable leadership quality that is required to really pull together an electoral majority in this state. Arnold has the charisma to do it, but he's proven to be too amateurish in how he pulls it off.

I was working in Sacramento, lobbying for a regional government agency, in 1995-96 when the GOP in the Assem. was fighting with itself over who would be speaker. (Remember Doris Allen!?) Willie Brown really had the GOP tied in knots, and I actually tip my hat to him for this political ability to stymie the Republicans in the Legislature.

I do remember Doris Allen. I also remember being embarrassed and angered by what the Republicans were doing to each other in the Assembly. They blew such a golden opportunity by squabbling amongst themselves during those two years. When I speak of Republican politicians who betray the grunts who man campaigns, that's the kind of thing I mean.

Instead of comporting themselves with dignity, resolving their differences behind the scenes and coming together for the good of the whole, they selfishly fought like schoolkids. In the process, they threw away the opportunity we grunts handed them by our hard work.

Obviously I can't speak for every district in the state, but the same kind of squabbling has been going on in the district where I live for years and years. And, of course, we see it all over FR daily.

The problem with McClintock ... is that he is a policy wonk

I don't know about you, but I've grown to truly appreciate McClintock, and am looking forward to supporting his bid for Lt. Gov.

I'm hungry for a little more wonk. His radio ad for the props was really good ... I sure could get used to that voice.