For principled conservatives out there who is scratching their heads, wondering why Republicans en masse in the State Assembly (Chuck DeVore’s opposing vote noted) provided votes to put someone as terrible as Abel Maldonado in the Lt. Governor’s office (his confirmation will now be taken up in the State Senate where it is very likely to pass), I want to share an e-mail I received to provide some perspective.
Let me preface the reprinting of this e-mail by first saying that the "political" argument of approving Maldonado so that Republicans could have the best possible chance of holding the seat as economically as possible in a smaller-turnout special election is no longer viable. While it is, of course, possible for the special election to be held on its own, the timing of this confirmation permits Governor Schwarzenegger to consolidate it with the November General election, saving big bucks for taxpayers. But that means that for the GOP to retain that seat, it will be very, very costly. And in a world of limited resources, the money to fight for that seat comes at the expense of resources to battle for potential gains.
So why would a Republican vote to give a big, fat promotion knowing this?
Here’s an e-mail I got from a Republican legislator. I am not keen, as FR readers know, of presenting anonymous information. But this was startling enough that I figured it was worth the trade-off, in terms of letting you know the thoughts ofat least one GOP legislator (though I’ve had these sentiments given to me verbally by a great many)…
In a state as diverse as California, a Republican legislative majority will have moderates in it. We understand that. An example — Tom Harman is respected by his caucus. Why the difference? Because he keeps his word. When he tells you something you can take it to the bank.
When trying to figure out what Abel Maldonado is going to do it is a waste of time talking to him because he does not tell the truth.
Instead his colleagues are left to speculate on what is in his best interest. You don’t lobby Abel by discussing what is best for California. You lobby him by telling him how a particular vote will benefit him.
As a Senator he will sell his vote on tax issues that will face this state based on one question- "What is in it for Abel?"
Republicans disagreed with Dave Cogdill and Mike Villines, but no one questioned that they did what they thought was best. Abel is in a completely different category. It is distasteful, but the truth is the Senate is a better place without him. Democrats have less insight into caucus strategy without him in the room. And taxpayers are safer without him.
I support him… and good riddance.
April 22nd, 2010 at 12:00 am
Poor old Abe….the token RINO whipping boy…..
You know it is primary season when so called conservatives eat their own ilk!!!!