The Dem leaning electorate is really a reflection of socially liberal, not fiscally liberal, sentiments. Rudy is cast perfectly from the Arnie mold. Basically stay out of other people's business, get the house in order, and let's all have a good time.
(Speaking of which, the OC beaches were in the 80s today - it was almost as crowded as the 4th of July.)
California is capable of electing a Republican governor if he's not a real Republican. We just did, twice. I don't believe we will elect a real Republican senator (though Arnold is a possibility) either in the foreseeable future. Nor will anyone who is not a completely obvious RINO possibly carry California in a presidential race in the foreseeable future. In most or all states, including CA, the governor's race is less partisan than Senate and presidential races.
You're right to this extent: Results of ballot measures do suggest that, even today, there is not an ideologically liberal majority in California on most issues -- economic or social. But unfortunately, Democrats have a tremendous PR advantage and an equal financial advantage. Both of these things make it hard for the Republicans to get really good candidates, and the vicious cycle continues. Also, there's that little immigration problem, which is slowly sinking us politically and otherwise.
I hate 80-plus degree weather in March. And inland, it can get really terrible in the summer, which lasts from May through October. And it's often humid now, which it didn't used to be.
Yet another reason for leaving the formerly Golden State.