Didn't the State legal team really put out a limp-wristed effort in that case? IIRC, the whole idea that the AG and geovernor were in any way even trying to support Prop 187 was a joke from start to finish. Or am I confusing that with Prop 8, where the same thing happened?
Yes and no. Wilson's people pursued it. Once Gray Davis was elected governor, he refused to pursue it and resisted any attempt to force him to enforce State law.
Or am I confusing that with Prop 8, where the same thing happened?
No, you are correct. A gerrymandered State legislature was disinclined to enforce the clear will of the people.