R-nold was going to be at the convention one way or the other. His speech wasn't half as good as Zell Miller's -- that's the one that rankled the Dems.
As for Ohio, s'what? You're telling me that the GOP boosted R-nold for Governor of California so he could campaign in Ohio? Get serious! The only reason Ohio mattered was because California was out of play! And while that didn't end up hurting W, having another wishy-washy 'Pub is hurting us in California!
Bottom line...
BEFORE the 2004 election for president there are four simple facts...
1) McClintock was a sure loser.
2) Arnold had a very good chance at winning.
3) McClintock tried to play the spoiler. He tried to hurt the only Republican with chance to win.
4) "Govenor Arnold" would be an asset to Dubya in the campaign.