My advice. Know the facts before entering into conversations. Take a moment. Review the last few California budgets. Examine what's happened in California since the beginning of the Wilson administration. Examine the effects of the Bush administration's policies on California's economy and its fiscal challenges. Understand the rapidly changing nature of the demographics in California and their effect on the political culture.
Statements that suggest Schwarzenegger didn't create this mess by himself or hasn't the authority to unilaterally cut spending aren't helpful to your personal credibitly or your party's credibility and aren't productive in solving our state's problems.
And BTW, Freepers who stand on street corners and protest are shaping America's policies whether the expression is beneath your dignity or not.
People who stand on street corners and protest make no impact whatsoever. None.
It can be a fun social event with friends, but it changes nothing substantive and influences no-one in power. The powerless and clueless - or those out for recreational fun - protest on the street. But, the bottom line remains, it changes nothing.
It never has. It never will. You want to influence policy, you go to the halls of power where policy is directed. That takes an investment of time, money and involvement in the political process where the people and institutions that impact our lives reside.
While you're standing around on a curb feeling engaged and influential, smarter people working in legislative caucus rooms and litigating in courtrooms are micromanaging your life and picking your pocket. Shazzam!!