You know, I've lived in CA for 40 years, and I just don't agree.
Republicans are like that mean high school teacher you love to hate, but love, because he challenged you. When Republicans stand firm on principle, and shrug off Dems smears ("mean-spirited," "racist," etc.), they do very well with the electorate, even in California, and even with voter fraud.
In the past few years, we've passed referendums against affirmative action, bilingual education, and gay marriage. How'd that happen, if we're such a Leftist, immoral state?
Not with the wimpy RINO leadership we've seen from the GOP. We won those Propostitions in spite of them.
Hardcore Republicans with fire in their belly can still appeal to a majority of California voters.
When we try to be "nice" or "compassionate" by out-pandering or outbidding the Dems (never happens) we get our butts whipped... every time.
After throwing the aborted Riordan support overboard, Bush has endorsed Simon (don't give up on him yet). Yesterdays'polls show Simon in the lead. Personally, if this is played right, I think he will wax Davis. Send me his campaign info and I'll send him some dough.
The Riordans of our party aren't making the "tent" bigger, they're merely moving it. By doing so, we lose at least as many people as we gain.
That is so true and for good reason. When republicans pander for votes they alienate their base and lose big time on the other end when the pandered vote invariably goes to the highest bidding democrat. This reminds me of another well-known Republican.
Or, as Kenny Rogers so eloquently put it:
Know when to hold `em,
Know when to fold `em.
Know when to walk away,
Know when to run.
You never count your money
when you're sittin' at the table.
There'll be time for countin'
When the dealin's done.
Words to live by, IMHO.