Californians' comments Wednesday on the recall of Democratic
Gov. Gray Davis and election of Republican Arnold Schwarzenegger:
``At least it's something different.'' Jason Rogers, 25, an
independent from Fresno, who voted no on the recall and skipped the
second part of the ballot.
``You had someone run who was unusual for the arena. That is, a
bigger-than-life celebrity, an actor of all things, able to draw
huge crowds and able to mesmerize not based on a program he put
forward, but based on who he is.... That just took over.'' U.S.
Sen. Dianne Feinstein, a Democrat, on Schwarzenegger.
``I think that the people of California decided to take charge
and make changes instead of letting everything stay status quo. We
all stood up and voiced our opinion. I'm proud of this state.''
Kevin Donaldson, 43, who voted for the recall and for
Schwarzenegger.
``Arnold is in over his head. He doesn't know politics and he's
got this dark cloud hanging over his head with these allegations.
But who knows, maybe he can pardon himself.'' Democrat Richard
Gahagan, 56, of Fresno, referring to allegations that
Schwarzenegger harassed women.
``I think it's a wonderful thing that Republicans have elected a
pro-choice, pro-gay rights, pro-gun control governor. I think
that's wonderful.'' State Senate President Pro Tem John Burton,
D-San Francisco.
``We needed a change. But I don't like Arnold. I had just seen
him in the movies. I like him as an actor, but not as a governor.
I'm scared. We don't know what's going to happen now. I wanted (Lt.
Gov. Cruz) Bustamante.'' Jessica Miramontes, 21, a Camarillo gas
station manager.
``This is like a joke to me. I'm so used to him just being an
actor.'' Brenda Jones, 39, of Los Angeles on Schwarzenegger's
election.
``People followed the bandwagon. People, they don't want to
think for themselves.'' Yolanda Brown, 40, of Los Angeles, a
Democrat who voted against the recall.
``I think emotionally he will restore confidence to the people
of California. But secondly, because he has a mandate, I think the
Legislature's going to work with him to make the kind of major cuts
we need to make to get jobs back into California and to repeal all
the stupid rules, laws and regulations that are antibusiness.''
Former Los Angeles Mayor Richard Riordan.
``Davis did nothing wrong so now what are we going to do? Recall
Schwarzenegger as soon as the allegations are proved of his sexual
harassment?'' Bill LaMonica, 53, a Democrat interviewed at a
Fresno shopping mall.
``I cried in bed last night and let the puppy sleep on the bed
with me, because I was so sad and discouraged. I feel much more
cheerful this morning. I know God was not off doing the dishes
during this election, and that goodness always wins out in the
end.'' Marin County author Anne Lamott.
``I think it's a wonderful thing that happened, so I'm glad
California voters were able to make a stand.'' Cia Hunter, 21, a
law student at the University of Southern California.
``I don't know what it's going to be like when they work
together. I think Bustamante just took the loss so personally, he's
not going to cooperate.'' Public safety officer David Balthazar,
41, of Downey, on Schwarzenegger and Bustamante working alongside
one another.
(Copyright 2003 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)