“It’s my recollection that the Bush admin screwed McClintock.”
I think you have that exactly right. Hewitt’s support of Arnold over McClintock was a good indicator of what the Bush GOP wanted done. McClintock wouldn’t have been a reliable flunky for that crowd, he’s too principled and would have put what is right for the people of California ahead of what is expedient for the big tent faction of the GOP.
Bush admin. had told Tom that Bush would come out and make a speech for him. Then, they rescinded that offer very late in the campaign. IIRC.
That is Tom McClintock for you. He doesn't sell out and stands on logic and principles. Even after all the pandering to the RINO’s from the California GOP, Tom was in the lead at a certain point and I can't remember what he lost by, but I believe is was somewhat close. Plus, it didn't help that Arnold was Mr. Flameboyant during the debates. Tom came across levelheaded and straightforward but he was competing with Hollywood and this is California land of Fruits and Nuts.;)
I really can't say enough about him. A friend met him once at a Conservative function and had a long conversation with him and said he's absolutely the Real Deal.