Karen Hanretty had this , it was an inside job.
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The real story is who among the governor’s staff leaked a confidential, private conversation to the media. Who betrayed Governor Schwarzenegger. Who deserves to be fired for this abuse. And most importantly, how can any member of the legislative leadership, whether Democrat or Republican, be assured that their private conversations with Governor Schwarzenegger will not be taped, transcribed and leaked to a reporter.
The blame for this fiasco does not rest on the shoulders of the Los Angeles Times. It rests squarely on the shoulders of one of the Governor’s own administration. And it betrays a weakness deep within.
Plescia Responds To Governor's Taped Remarks
“The Governor has called to personally apologize and I accepted. He has reiterated his respect for our entire caucus. Politics is a contact sport, and we look forward to continued civility from all sides as we move toward the November elections.”
Whoever authorized the taping and allowed those tapes to be transcribed by a independent, commercial operator, has responsibility for this embarrassing moment.
I agree with Hanretty. Both Schwarzenegger and Kennedy were aware of the taping and the blame rests there. Both should be fired.
Fortunately for the governor, this episode hit the fan on Friday night and apparently was not part of a greater plan to peak minority distrust of a white European 4 days before an election.
My guess is that the Tribune Company management insisted the material be released today, after the flak they took for similar activities launched during the 11th hour of the the 2003 recall.