Arnold get his 70 million dollar wish

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today announced his support for three special election ballots mostly likely to hit the state next fall. This will pit Arnold and his special interest backed needs against teacher unions, firefighters, and the Democratic party. Arnold has noted in the past that he will need at least $50 million from his special interest supporters to push these proposals through.

And, I might add, nothing helps a state get out of debt like a $70 million dollar special election.

Meanwhile Democrats have proposed a compromise on one of Arnold's pet projects. They have agreed to allow an independent panel to draw up congressional districts if Arnold agrees to put off the changes until 2010.

I remember reading at MyDD that this idea wouldn't be as bad for Democrats as it initially sounds, and while looking for that statement, I came across this post that I really cannot add much more to.

I agree with the Democrats stance that this redrawing should be done following the next census. To change the districts by 2006 gives candidates and the judicial panels little time to prepare for the elections. A 2008 change would be a waste of taxpayer money for a two year change. Of course, Arnold's never been above wasting taxpayer money.

It's hard to judge the outcome of a "non-partisan redistricting" without seeing it's outcome. The idea is great in theory, but ultimately depends on the fairness and judgment of those "non-partisans" involved. Democrats, however, I right to get out in front of this wave and hopefully can turn it into other reforms across the country.