California's Governor Pads His Squad--WaPo

[Demeter]

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/01/24/AR2006012401522.html?referrer=email


By Chris Cillizza

Wednesday, January 25, 2006; Page A05

As he faces a tough reelection battle, California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger is adding people to his political entourage. So far, at least, he's not doing any subtracting. This could lead to a big team -- not always a formula for nimble politics.

Steve Schmidt, who will leave his position as a senior adviser to Vice President Cheney at the conclusion of Samuel Alito's confirmation battle, will be the campaign manager with broad mandate over spending and strategic decisions, according to a source familiar with the arrangement.

Matthew Dowd, a senior Bush campaign strategist, will play a similar role in Schwarzenegger's reelection bid -- handling long-term positioning and message.

Still on board -- though in a somewhat ambiguous role -- is Republican media consultant Mike Murphy, the man who guided Schwarzenegger to a victory in the 2003 recall campaign and, less successfully, directed the media campaign for a handful on ballot initiatives backed by the governor last fall. Murphy will remain in the Schwarzenegger universe, though after March this will be only in a volunteer role.

While all sides on the new Schwarzenegger team proclaim themselves happy with the arrangement, several party operatives wonder whether Murphy -- known for his flamboyant personality -- can peacefully coexist with the new Bush arrivals.

SO, ARNOLD IS IMPORTANT TO BUSHCO, ENOUGH TO SEND SOME BIG GUNS OUT FOR HIS FALTERING CAMPAIGN. ALL THE MORE REASON TO DEFEAT HIM!

[CubFan7125]

1. Middle Of The road - My Ass!!!!!

How can the Gropenator even claim to be middle of the road anymore when he is recruiting a senior Bush campaign strategist and one of Cheney's hacks to run his campaign. To all my friends in California, bounce this guy.

[catzies]

2. Ahnold isn't as important as our 55 electoral votes -- which the GOP needs

in 2008.

[AX10]

3. and this is why he'll lose.

The GOP is in a bad spot, especially in Cali. Going to the right, combined with Bush's low numbers , and Arnie's screwups, he's done with.

[central scrutinizer]

4. He'll be running against one opponent

instead of hundreds.