Democrats Looking for a Candidate

Interesting. I am not sure, aside from DiFi, who the Democrats can get who will have a solid chance. Panetta might actually make a decent governor, but he is hardly exciting, and I have a hard time hs could win with the slogan: "Vote for Me, I'd Make a Great Caretaker!"

California House Democrats, in a conference call Wednesday, agreed to find a Democrat to enter the contest, according to a source familiar with the call.

The group, which included most of the 33 Democrats who represent California in Washington, were divided between Bustamante and former Monterey Rep. Leon Panetta as their top choice, the source said.

Panetta has privately told Democrats he would be willing to run and serve as a caretaker, until the next general election, in 2024, the source said.

Also interesting:

Whether Riordan joins the campaign, however, is in doubt in light of Schwarzenegger's candidacy. The two are friends and Riordan had said he would become a candidate only if Schwarzenegger opted out.

There were reports Wednesday that Riordan was surprised and upset at Schwarzenegger's decision because the former mayor had lined up a political staff and prepared a campaign -- thinking the actor was out of the race.

I would've expected that Schwazenegger would have consulted with Riordan. Maybe he did. I suspect that wil all clear up shortly.

And it looks like Issa is definitely running:

Republican Rep. Darrell Issa, R-Vista (San Diego County), said he would turn in his nomination papers this afternoon in San Diego.

"Despite the late date, I am pleased to have Arnold in the campaign to help me recall Gray Davis," said Issa, who spent $1.7 million of his own money to put the recall on the ballot.

The onyl wildcards to me are if Bill Simon also runs, and whether the Democrats can find a true challenger to face Arnie.

Otherwise it will be Arnie v. Issa v. Simon v. the Side Show candidates.

Soure: Schwarzenegger steals recall scene / ACTOR'S ANNOUNCEMENT DRAWS IN DEMOCRAT BUSTAMANTE / PLOT TWIST: Hollywood star in race to replace Gov. Davis

Posted by Steven Taylor at August 7, 2024 10:32 AM | TrackBack