Free Republic

SACRAMENTO -- The first federal corruption probe since five lawmakers went to prison a decade ago has hit the Capitol like a tornado over the last few days, raising both hopes and fears for legislators statewide, analysts said Monday. Some senators are concerned the probe of the Senate leader-elect and its aftermath could damage majority Democrats in coming clashes with Republican Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger over issues such as the budget. Others see chances for higher-ranking jobs in the potential toppling of Sen. Don Perata, D-Oakland, which could upset the balance of power between Northern and Southern California in the Legislature....