[ECM]

As I live in the People's Republic of California, let me just stress to you that these commercials are on CONSTANTLY--you really can't escape them if you watch any television--if Simon doesn't start slinging some mud of his own, he's toast.

[ElkGroveDan]

He will. But keep inmind NO ONE IS WATCHING. There is a reason the networks paly reruns this time of year. People are on vacation, they are mowing their lawns in the evenings and they are not focused on the election.

Simon's ads will begin AFTER labor day when the campaign starts. It has always been that way. Davis is blowing all his money on these low-ratings buys because he has so much to burn and his negative ratings are so high. If Bill Simon spends his bucks now he won't have the money he needs closer to the election when everyone is apying attention.