If we had left Gray Davis in there then the blame for the current situation would fall squarely on him. Instead, what people will remember is that the Republicans are at fault for destroying the state.
Which only illustrates the fact that party distinctions have become meaningless. The “governing class” folks are like Civil War Re-Enactors: Suit up in blue or suit up in gray, put on a show, make sure nobody gets hurt - and go have a drink.