Positive signs for GOP in Democratic-leaning California

[Kadie]

Positive signs for GOP in Democratic-leaning California

By BETH FOUHY, Associated Press


Last Updated: May 25, 2004, 12:09:26 PM PDT


CARLSBAD, Calif. (AP) - Democratic strength in recent presidential elections has left California Republicans nostalgic for the last actor-turned-governor - Ronald Reagan - and looking toward their new one to improve GOP prospects.

Republicans say privately President Bush has little if any chance of capturing the state's prize of 55 electoral votes. Contemporary history and math also indicate John Kerry should keep California in the Democratic column - Bill Clinton won the state in 1992 and 1996, Al Gore beat Bush by double digits there in 2000 and the president's approval ratings remain in the low 40s.

Nevertheless, Republicans see a wealth of opportunities on the horizon, due in large part to shifting population growth and the broad popularity of their new governor - Arnold Schwarzenegger.

"I have always maintained that California is far more competitive than pundits believe," said former Gov. Gray Davis, the Democrat who was recalled by voters and replaced by Schwarzenegger last year. "Democrats can't win this state on the cheap. Kerry has to spend money here, and I believe he knows that."

more... http://www.modbee.com/24hour/politics/story/1394809p-86...

[livetohike]

1. Guess we will all have to work hard

I will be working to unseat Darrell Issa down here in San Diego County. "Hero " of the recall.

[SoonerShankle]

3. Good!!!

Issa thought he could buy the governor's office for himself....



Keep up the good work!

[livetohike]

5. Thanks!

Mike Byron is a really good guy (and Pres. of my local Dem club). Issa has to go.

[deepcover]

4. no way man

i'm up in raygun country (santa b) and have yet to see a bush* bumper sticker. this is how i tell the temp of the country. they were all over in 2000. they talk about cali being in play because of arnie, but he didn't win because he was repub. he won because he was arnie.

[mitchtv]

7. can't unseat Bono out here in 45

We stand a good chance to unseat Bonnie Garcia Ca AD80.
the now powerful Stonewall Democrats, fresh from their big victory in PS municipal elections are actively campaigning for Mary Ann Andreas. If elected, she will be the first American Indian female elected to the legislatue. She is raising money. Hopefully, making Dean's Dozen,will be an asset. GOOD LUCK ALL OF US.

[demosincebirth]

10. Is he the guy who was...

crying like a baby, on tv, when he dropped out?

[SoonerShankle]

2. I've been saying this for a long time now....

The grassroots group that I have been working with in LA seems to believe that they should be focusing their efforts on other states, like neighboring Arizona and Nevada. I have contended all along that we need to really focus on mobilizing the democratic base in our backyard first. The Governor will do more to get Republicans to the polls than he will to endorse Bush. Schwarzenegger is actively working to oust Senator Barbara Boxer and change the state senate and assembly from democratic control. There WILL be MANY Republicans out in November, so we have to be prepared.

[lancdem]

6. I agree that California should not be taken for granted

but I'm certain Bush will lose there.

[mitchtv]

8. How about a round of applause for Lynne Woolsey

Consistantly on the correct side of the Issues. I am fond of Mike Thompson , also.

[davidinalameda]

9. there may be Repuke pick ups in some assembly seats

only because Ahnuld is actively campaigning for some candidates but other than that, the Repukes are done as a statewide party

If it was anyone else other than Ahnuld in the recall, we would either still have Davis or Bustamonte as governor right now