Feinstein to oppose Arnold's initiatives

Color me pleasantly surprised:

Sen. Dianne Feinstein will participate in the campaign against Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's agenda in the Nov. 8 special election, as well as an initiative seeking to impose restrictions on minors seeking abortions.

"Feinstein believes that the special election is a mistake. It's a costly waste of taxpayer dollars," spokesman Howard Gantman said Friday.

Feinstein, a San Francisco Democrat who also appeals to many independents and Republicans, plans to participate in opponents' efforts to explain why voters should defeat the initiatives, Gantman said. Such efforts could involve a direct mail campaign.