Arnold has said he looks forward to working with Tom, and that he feels they would "make a great team". I believe that is an overture. Tom is in a great position to bargain here. Arnold has that Teutonic pragmatism. He can see Tom's numbers as well as Tom can, and that SHOULD be enough to make him realize that McClintock has a significant portion of the voter base. As well, some people who would otherwise vote for McClintock are likely to vote for Arnold in an effort to secure a Republican, "half a loaf is better than none" win. Those voters should make clear to Arnold WHY they are voting for him, and make clear they expect some definite conservatism from him, AND that they expect him to WORK WITH McClintock...should McClintock so desire. I believe Arnold will go for it. I hope Tom does, because I'm planning on pushing hard for his next election run. I agree with those who speculate lawsuits and recounts if Arnold's win is narrow, coupled with the standard screeches of voter disenfranchizement and "selected, not elected". It worked so well in 2000, the Dems know all they have to do is perfect the act on every close election. Arnold needs a clear win. If nothing else, even if Tom stays ON the ballot, and he can, the public needs to see him being diplomatic enough to shake Arnie's hand in public, get some photo ops together and looks downright friendly. Make the overture NOW, while Arnold is willing to negotiate.
You did a great job with your verbal delivery in the debate. No sudden switchings in the middle of sentences. You got high marks from those who watched. Now work with Arnold to make GOOD public and economic policy and LEARN from his ability to appear relaxed with strangers.
Then use it in your next campaign if you don't win this one.