Posted on 09/02/2006 11:51:19 AM PDT by governsleastgovernsbest
by Mark Finkelstein
September 2, 2006 - 14:36
Republican? Want to make a "remarkable political comeback"? Become the functional equivalent of a Democrat. At least that would seem to be Good Morning America's advice. A segment of the ABC show focused this morning on the transmogrification of Arnold Schwarzenegger from a Republican who muscularly confronted the Democrats in Sacramento to one working hand-in-glove with them.
The spark for the segment was the deal Arnold has worked out with the Dem-dominated legislature to cut carbon emissions 25% over the next 15 years. Co-host Kate Snow hailed it as "a bold move made despite resistance from the Bush administration." She then turned things over to senior national correspondent Claire Shipman, who had earlier scored an interview with the governor.
Shipman wasted little time in suggesting that maverick is the way to go for Republicans: "The Schwarzenegger administration has decided to break with the Bush administration on fairly critical issues. Is that good politics these days?"
Arnold actually claimed "I don't think one should look at greenhouse gas emissions or global warming as a political issue." Is there something wrong with politics, Arnold? It's how democracy works. How would you want these matters of huge importance resolved - by implementing the recommendations of a panel appointed by Al Gore? Come to think of it, don't answer that.
Shipman tried to drive the wedge deeper: "President Bush is not a popular politician in California right now. If the White House called you tomorrow and Karl Rove got on the phone and said President Bush wants to campaign with you. What would you say?"
Arnold made it clear the welcome mat wouldn't be out: "I would say this is something I can handle myself. I think that it is something that is between me and the people of California."
It was then noted that "The 59-year-old Governor Schwarzenegger has made a remarkable political comeback in the past year, his approval rating jumping from 36% to 49%. How? After taking a beating for governing as an anti-union, Republican, he's moved to the center, cutting deals with the Democratic legislature on minimum wage, prescription drugs and now global warming."
Shipan: "Have you solved your political crisis by essentially turning into a Democrat?"
Schwarzenegger: "First of all, there was really no political crisis. . . I said, okay . . . I'm going to work with the legislators, meaning the Republicans and the Democrats."
There was this telling little exchange after the interview between Shipman and Snow:
Snow: "A marked change from when he used the term 'economic girly men.'"
Shipman: "Yes. It's a interesting political shift for him. I know most of the folks I talked with said they really welcome what he's doing. He's playing to the populace there."
And then, in a sign of just how the mighty have fallen, Snow suggested: "Make room, Al Gore, on that fight."
ABC's message seemed clear enough to Republicans who want to 'pump up' puny approval ratings: go left, young man!
GMA/NewsBusters pump-you-up ping to Today show list.
California Conservatives, Don't Worry!
You still have a choice in the Governor's race. Don't waste your vote on a Republican that might as well be a Democrat. Instead of voting for a pro-abortion, pro-homosexuality, anti-moral, anti-second ammendment, pro-big government, pro-tax increase candidate, who happens to have an "R" beside his name, vote for the true conservative in the race.
Vote for Ed Noonan, the American Independent Party candidate. For more information, go to www.ednoonan4gov.org
ping
Ahnold the terminated (Republican that is)
(No more Olmert! No more Kadima! No more Oslo! )
One would think that the Pope had converted to Islam.
(No more Olmert! No more Kadima! No more Oslo! )
A vote for Arnold is a vote for Hillary. :-)
Got into office and proved himself to be California's Conan the Boobarian.
His shrill shills were so vocal once.
Arnold isn't pro tax increase... anything but.
There is one silver lining in this unfolding tragedy. There is quiet in the land.
It's rumored that both FO and the Minister of Information have taken up residence in a supply room at 1903 W. Magnolia Blvd. in Burbank after the Friday Night Masaccare of Republican values and the POTUS hit the airways. Steve Schmidt has repeatedly asked them to come out but both steadfastly refuse to reemerge until after the election.
Just updating you on your hero. I don't think the mods will take offense to my pinging you but if you feel you must then turn me in.
The big one downstairs or the small one upstairs?
I'm glad that they are "hailing his leftward tilt." The problem with electing liberal Republicans is that it's confusing to the voter. When they screw things up, the voters blame the conservatives.
You are joking aren't you?
Don't know what you're smoking over there. He just increased the sales tax. He has consistently supported bigger government. Awaiting your next excuse.
Shipan: "Have you solved your political crisis by essentially turning into a Democrat?"
Schwarzenegger: "First of all, there was really no political crisis. . . I said, okay . . . I'm going to work with the legislators, meaning the Republicans and the Democrats."
--
Odd statement,he has worked very little with the Rs of late, in fact, they have not been supportive of much of anything he has been supporting or signing legislation-wise.
I don't consider making a stand for conservatism a joke. Do you?
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