Or... appointing Abel Maldonado would give Maldonado a leg up on the Lt. Guv spot. He has been Arnold's pet lapdog for the past several years introducing some of the most contentious legislation (e.g. minimum wage hikes), has given the Dems the deciding vote on various budget and borrowing bills and Harvey Milk "gay day," and will face a difficult primary election in his pursuit of the Lt. Gov spot in 2010 given his liberal record. Running as an incumbent would greatly increase his chances.
I believe in the old "No honor among thieves" saying. I don't think Arnold has much respect for Abel. A few years back they really went at it because Arnold wouldn't back him in his race for Controller. It's also obvious among everyone including libs that Abel has NO convictions, he's all about Abel and he'll do what it takes to get to the top. Arnold believes he comes from a background of hard work to get where you need to go.
If I had to guess he'd pick Bruce McPherson, a far more likable person, but just as much a filthy RINO ideologically.