CA: If recall's held, Simon sounds ready

Sac Bee ^ | 7/10/03 | Gary Delsohn and David Whitney

[NormsRevenge]

Republican businessman Bill Simon made a whirlwind tour of Sacramento on Wednesday, acting and sounding very much like he'll run again against Gov. Gray Davis if there is a recall election.

"As I sit here today," he said after a series of meetings in and around the Capitol, "I think we could do it. I'm open to running again. My family's open to running again. There's no show stoppers from a personal perspective."

[NormsRevenge]

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[South40]

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[Cicero]

I continue to think that Simon is the best candidate. I don't think he ran a mistake-prone campaign, either. Yes, he made a few mistakes, but so does any campaign. The problem is that he was mousetrapped by the press, damaged by a false lawsuit against a family company, and undermined and betrayed by Gerald Parsky. Yet he still came pretty close, despite the fact that Gray Davis probably got a billion dollars in free publicity from the liberal California press and Simon had a very limited advertising budget to respond with, owing to Parsky's sabotage.

[truth_seeker]

"Rep. Darrel Issa, R-Vista, who has bankrolled recall signature gathering, has stated that he wants the job. In addition to Simon, other possible candidates are actor Arnold Schwarzenegger, former Los Angeles Mayor Richard Riordan, former Secretary of State Bill Jones and state Sen. Tom McClintock, R-Simi Valley."

There are six of them, all named.

He can get in if he wants, but he won't win. He's the GOP's AlGore (meaning he lost, already).

[EggsAckley]

I tend to agree with you. Considering that he was SO close last time (5%??) and that Davis' approval rating is dipping down in the twenties, Simon could just do it. I'm still skeptical about that 5% loss last time. I think the DemRats would have come up with whatever winning number they needed, through voter fraud.

[research99]

(Repost from another thread):

If it's Simon calling the shots, then I'd say he's absolutely unqualified for the job of Governor.

Example #1: The "smoking gun photo" that he released after last year's debate, which (he claimed) showed Davis accepting a campaign contribution in a State office; Which instead was a legitimate donation made in a private home. Obviously, Simon didn't do his research before repeating a demonstrably false claim (which originated with the head of COPS).

Example #2: Going into business, including giving over $23 million dollars, with a publicly-known and federally-convicted "drug lord," before waiting for the results of a background check that his firm authorized. (If you need to confirm this, reply here and I'll provide supporting facts, including the civil case number and location where you can view it).

Example #3: When the going got tough last August, Simon (without notice) laid off half his staff, many of whom had supported him when he had >5% in the polls, with no notice and with no severance pay. This saved him an (estimated) half million dollars, in a campaign where he eventually spent about $10 million dollars on TV ads -- and lost. Is this the kind of boss you'd like to work for?

Not to defend Davis (he needs to go!!) but Simon's baggage combined with Sal Russo's incompetence at running a campaign, threaten to split the anti-Davis vote in the Recall. In fact, it makes the Recall precisely what the Democrats say it is: A re-run of last year's election.

In my opinion, over one million Californians who signed those petitions deserve better.

[Richard-SIA]

If Simon had only aquired the support of Kali Gun Owners he would have won the election.

Instead he chose to come out as anti-gun, that clearly was a mistake.

[pogo101]

Clearly Simon is better-qualified to govern than Davis. (Not much of a compliment, perhaps.) But I think he's no more charismatic than the average person, and any GOP candidate is going to need far more of that quality than usual to win in this state -- and then to be at all effective in the likely poisoned aftermath of a successful recall. That's why I tend favor Ahhnuld, liberal though he is on many issues ... even though I would prefer other candidates if I believed they could be elected. But it appears Riordan doesn't want the job, and I personally don't see this charisma in Simon, Issa, McClintock (my top choice), et al.

[w_over_w]

Govenor Davis! How do feel about getting recalled?

[NormsRevenge]

Nothing personal but have you met any of these men in person or heard them speak without script in hand? I have. I won't ask you to trust my judgment, but .. Be open-minded.

I really do hate seeing this streak of character assassinations that are all over the Recall threads.. How Davi$esque it all IS.. But, I guess it is par for the course on the premiere political forum on the internet, I reckun.

[I_Love_My_Husband]

Well said. Too many naysayers.

I think Simon, McClintock...et al, are all great, but I just want to win at this point. I'm a fan of all of them.

However, like I said I want to win, so Governor Terminator here we come!

[Saundra Duffy]

I am so pissed with Bill Simon right now I could spit nails! He has endorsed Villines in the Assembly primary against the incumbent conservative "bull-dog" Assemblyman, Steve Samuelian. There is no excuse!!! If Bill Simon is so damn stupid that he would listen to the Valley GOP vultures and endorse Samuelian's opponent thereby causing a huge BATTLE in the primary that will DESTROY Party unity, then I want nothing to do with Bill Simon.

Dave Cox has come out in support of Samuelian and the pro gun crowd is behind him 100%. The witch hunt conducted by the GOP cannibals has backfired. You'll see. Too bad Bill Simon let himself be sucked into this cat fight! Sheeeesh. I can't believe it!! You have no idea how mad this makes me.

And you will not find anyone who worked harder (volunteer!) than yours truly for Bill Simon for Gov. We're talking blood sweat and tears. For Bill Simon to endorse Villines is spitting in my face.

We (the grass roots) will not rest until Steve Samuelian is safe and sound, re-elected for a second term.

Therefore, I will support Issa or McClintock or even Schwartznegger - whoever emerges as the one. We need JUST ONE!!! Otherwise, the democraps will laugh us to scorn. I will not support Bill Simon ever again. Period.

[NormsRevenge]

Sorry to hear that. It's a FReeP Country, Saundra.

I wish I had a dime for every pin stuck in Simon's voodoo doll, I'd be a rich man, too ;-)

[research99]

Norm,

RE: "I really do hate seeing this streak of character assassinations that are all over the Recall threads.. How Davi$esque it all IS.."

If you're referring to Simon, I'd wager an honest sampling of CA Republicans would prefer that he NOT run, based on his "amateurish" campaign of last year. Just think of all the time, money, and genuine effort that went into supporting a guy who couldn't even manage a campaign...and the only winners were Sal Russo (who took his % from over $10 million Simon spent) and Gray Davis.

With other choices available, why should we be encouraged, to make the same mistake twice?

[ElkGroveDan]

Bill Simon never came out as anti-gun. The NRA and Gun Owners of CA supported him to the end. He is/was/will alwasy be a solid A vote.

Before you respond, drop by your local gun store and ask to see the assault weapons. They will say they don't have any.

[NormsRevenge]

On another thread, I made no bones that I was an ardent supporter of Bill (SoB) last go around, however, I have decided that Tom is my man for the Recall until he says otherwise.

I think Bill learned a lot and has a ways to go, but he may have to be content to let the voters wounds heal awhile longer. I personally would prefer to see him in the AG spot (even tho, he may be a mini-Lockyer re: guns) but that's down the road and probably not going to happen.

[research99]

I agree. Bill S. needs experience -- and we need a capable candidate for Governor -- more than Sal Russo needs a couple more million dollars in his pocket.

[NormsRevenge]

Just think of all the time, money, and genuine effort that went into supporting a guy who couldn't even manage a campaign

---

It's not like the GOP party put much money into his campaign anyway, btw. Nor beat the drum very loudly at all for him. And re: PR folks like Russo etc, it's a free country. If the govt can fleece you, why can't the PR folks do it too.

Also, I honestly need to refresh my memory re: Bill's gun stance. My parenthecized jab may out of bounds. (I personally don't own any guns, by choice and not out of fear or paranoia, btw) Im sure someone will provide redirect as needed.

[Saundra Duffy]

The gun issue was one of the things that made me work so hard for Bill Simon. I even made speeches on his behalf and everything!! Why on earth did Bill Simon endorse a challenger in an Assembly race against a sitting conservative Republican? What is wrong with these people?!

Now instead of working for District 30 and 31 GOP candidates, we - grassroots volunteers - are going to have to concentrate all of our time and effort in keeping Steve Samuelian in his duly-elected seat. This is sickening.

Tell Bill Simon he should reconsider. Otherwise, he's not only spitting in my face (I'm a nobody) but he's spitting in the face of Dave Cox and ALL the pro gun advocates who support Assemblyman Steve Samuelian. Sheeeeeesh!!!!!!

[NormsRevenge]

The NRA and Gun Owners of CA supported him to the end.

Thanks for the reminder. This is a point I missed as I wrote my last 2 posts.

[research99]

RE: "It's not like the GOP party put much money into his campaign anyway, btw. Nor beat the drum very loudly at all for him. And re: PR folks like Russo etc, it's a free country. If the govt can fleece you, why can't the PR folks do it too."

I hope you mean this tongue-in-cheek. Because we have a $38+ billion deficit, and we need a solid Republican to step in and straighten things out.

Maybe McClintock, maybe Issa, and maybe even Schwarzenegger, but under no circumstances will having Bill Simon in the race help California. And adding to Sal Russo's bank ledger isn't worth lip service, when millions will pay more in taxes, lose vital services, and quite likely lose their jobs!

[NormsRevenge]

That was a jab at PR folks. LOL

I should have used a sarcasm tag. ;-)

Well,I have to shove off for a bit and go support the local economy.

Oh, have you seen Simon's proposals if he is elected? ( not that I am supporting him in the recall, mind you)

They don;t sound too unreasonable.

btw, Have you seen Issa's? (I think his will be OK)

or Arnold's? (No, I didn't think so. He doesn't have any) :-)

[daviddennis]

Could you send a link to an article about this that gives more details on the candidates and why Simon made that decision?

Other people I've talked to say that Simon might be the best hope because he has money and name recognition - thanks to OUR efforts - and credibility, since what he's warned the electorate about has happened, exactly to his script.

Certainly Issa doesn't look good with his strange relatives, and Arnold is not going to be tough enough for the job.

That leaves McClintock, and he might not be a strong enough fundraiser for an election that's going to be fought on such a short time frame. He would certainly be my favourite for the office because he's written seriously on how to fix the budget problems, and I think he would be genuinely capable of doing so. Whether he can tackle the legislature is an open question, but at least he does have legislative experience within the body he'd be dealing with.

Either way, I'll be very curious to see how this plays out.

D

[research99]

RE: "Other people I've talked to say that Simon might be the best hope because he has money and name recognition - thanks to OUR efforts - and credibility , since what he's warned the electorate about has happened, exactly to his script."

Credibility?? Bill Simon???

Anyone who paid attention to the reports of the CAlifornia Legislative Analyst's Office last year, saw what was going on.

Bill Simon was too busy dodging a $79 million lawsuit judgment and participating a incompetent campaign, to actually devise a reasonable budget proposal last year!

[goldstategop]

I do NOT want him to run again. And for the sake of the party, I hope he doesn't.

[daviddennis]

Who do you feel is the best candidate, then?

D

[research99]

Procedurally, we have to wait for the Recall to be certified before there will be an elction scheduled.

Personally, I give an edge to Issa, for being the individual most responsible for the gathering of about 1 million signatures. Issa does have liabilities, including his questionnable background (the 1982 business takeover is a red flag) and his stands on social issues will alienate many potential swing voters.

McClintock may in some ways be a more knowledgeable representative, but his weaknesses are a lack of money and name recognition.

The Terminator is a wild-card, and he hasn't yet announced. He would probably win, but he hasn't stated positions on many issues.

There's no solid indication that Riordan will run, he just merged off his law firm, and he looks rather happy and relaxed in interviews (meaning, he probably enjoys retirement).

Simon blew his shot, and as poorly as he ran last year (and as much of a liability as he would be, by verifying the Democrat's "sour grapes" claims about the Recall), I don't think he deserves another chance.

[Heyworth]

Isn't Samuelian the one who was arrested for cruising for hookers and claimed to be lost and have no idea where he was, even though he'd been arrested there for the same thing before? And isn't there some connection between you and him, like that your daughter works for him or something?

[Ernest_at_the_Beach]

Thanks for the post!

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[xm177e2]

Simon lost for a reason. HE SUCKS. He should take a hike.

[TheAngryClam]

The state party is currently $500,000 in debt. They didn't have the money to give to anyone.

[jagrmeister]

I live in CA. Simon blew it in 2002. CA rejected him. He is too conservative for the state (and please don't reference Deujkiman (sp?) and Reagan- the state's demographics have changed since then). We need a moderate Republican like Issa or Schwarzenegger. Believe it or not, even if Davis is recalled, it's possible a Democrat will follow him into office if we get behind the wrong nominee. Simon is a sure loser.

[pogo101]

Nothing personal but have you met any of these men in person or heard them speak without script in hand? I have. I won't ask you to trust my judgment, but .. Be open-minded.

I really do hate seeing this streak of character assassinations that are all over the Recall threads.

WHOAH. You're saying that my post, stating my opinion, humbly, that Simon and others don't have the charisma to be elected, even though (as I also made clear) I prefer them to Davis and Schwarzenegger,

is "character assassination"?

Okaaaaaayyy....

*backs away slowly, not making eye contact*

[NormsRevenge]

Any elected official or successful public figure today has charisma or they don't get elected or rise to where they are in life. Simon, Issa and McClintock may not set you on fire but .. , charisma is in the eye of the beholder. :-)

My usage of character assassination was not a fair charge to level at you specifically, sorry, but I do see it everyday. It is all part of the "politics of personal destruction" that has become second nature for many political operatives these days.

[research99]

RE: Bill Simon's character. Simon still claims "innocence" in last year's $78+ million judgment (won by former 'drug lord' Edward Hindelang) vs. Bill Simon's investment firm, but the facts (upheld by a jury 12-0 and 11-1 votes in July 2002) still stand:

The consolidated civil case was Pacific Coin Management v. BR Telephony Partners, Los Angeles Superior Court #BC242432. (It includes cross-complaints #BC 241982 and #243969).

This case is very large, but can be read by any member of the public in the "Records Room" on the 1st Floor of the Stanley Mosk Courthouse at 111 Hill Street in Downtown Los Angeles during working hours (phone 213-974-5181, @830am-4pm). As parking is either limited or expensive, I suggest using the Metro "Red Line" Subway, which has a station directly across the street. Bring your valid photo I.D., but leave metal objects (ie weapons) at home. Copies are 57 cents per page.

In Volume 6 of this case, is documentation of the role of Security firm Scherzer & Co. of Woodland Hills (www.scherzer.com), which performed the background check on Pacific Coin executive (and former narcotics trafficker) Edward Hindelang AFTER Simon and Sons invested over $23 Million with his firm. Timeline: Simon and Sons announced finalization of the deal on February 11, 1998 (per Business Wire), but authorized the background check in March 1998, and the fax of the final report was sent September 12, 1998.

Only when Simon openly admits his mistake (instead of blaming others), will I re-consider his character as worthy of the Governorship of California!