[Cousin Eddie]

The objective isn't to unite Republicans, it's to fix California. To do that, you need to unite Californians...uniting 35% of the population doesn't do squat.

I'm not an Arnold fan and didn't vote for him, but McClintock supporters need to get over this "Republican" worship. There is no such thing as Governor of Republican California. Frankly I like McClintock's ideas more than any other candidate's, but he shows NO ability to work with anyone in Sacramento. People may not like it, but it's a job requirement.

And lastly, all of this "compromising principles" nonsense that we hear from various posters on FR is just that...nonsense. Unless one is voting for oneself, it is impossible NOT to compromise some principle when voting because no two people think alike on every single issue. (E.g. how many conservatives are thrilled with the politically correct tax loophole for Indian gaming?)

Frankly, the most imporant principle when voting is to determine what is the best POSSIBLE outcome after taking everything into account. And that means everthing: fiscal, social policy, long term & short term affect on the state and its people, etc. I can understand how reasonable people come down on either side based on the PRIORITIZATION of their principles...Tom or Arnold...but the fact is that every single voter has compromised some principle.

[Dog Gone]

I can understand how reasonable people come down on either side based on the PRIORITIZATION of their principles...Tom or Arnold...but the fact is that every single voter has compromised some principle.

Very well said.

Most people conduct some sort of balancing act in deciding whom to vote for, but others base it entirely on a single issue that is a veto-maker. There are several of those hot button issues, and those voters are willing to cast protest votes for candidates with no chance.

Others simply decide that they'll vote for the candidate closest to their own views and let the chips fall where they may.

I like to vote for the candidate closest to my views with a realistic shot of getting elected.