Assembly leader would excuse Shelley from testimony if he resigns

[Jack Rabbit]

From Associated Press via the San Francisco Chronicle
Dated Thursday February 3

Assembly leader would excuse Shelley from testimony if he resigns

Embattled Secretary of State Kevin Shelley should not be forced to testify before a legislative panel if he decides to resign his offices, Assembly Speaker Fabian Nunez said Thursday.

Shelley's appearance before the Joint Legislative Audit Committee was pushed back at least three weeks after independent counsels appointed by both parties said they needed more time to review the case.

The reprieve also means that legislative leaders have more time to negotiate the possible conditions of Shelley's resignation, which has been rumored in the Capitol for weeks.

Nunez, D-Los Angeles, said he did not think Shelley should have to make an appearance if he decides to step down before the hearing convenes.

Read more.

[bluestateguy]

1. One of the conditions should be the appointment of a Democrat replacement

Don't turn over control of the administration of elections to Republicans without at least giving the people the chance to elect a new Secretary of State.

[Jack Rabbit]

2. Schwarzenegger will almost certainly appoint a Republican

However, since he doesnt't want ot upset anybody when he's pushing his budget, his appointee won't be an in-your-face right wing kook.

Whatever Arnold's faults are (and he has a few), he isn't Bush.

[Liberty Belle]

3. Don't kid yourself.

He's beholden to the Republican Party and like all Rethugs, will tow the party line when ordered by the RNC.

[Jack Rabbit]

6. As a pratical matter, I have to disagree

Even if Arnold wanted to appoint Alberto Gonzales, he couldn't. Whoever he appoints will have to be approved by both (Democaratic-controlled) houses of the state legislature.

As I indicate in post no. 5, we should expect Shelley to be leaving soon. Expect him to be replaced by a bland Republican.

I will note that a few years ago when Chuck Quackenbush, the State Insurance Commissioner, resigned under a darker cloud than hangs over Shelley, Governor Davis appointed as his replacelment a fellow (whose name escapes me) with no political ambitions and who was not a candidate in the ensuing election. Perhaps Governor Schwarzennegger ought to pick someone like that. That would be my advice to him (if he's listening).

[genius]

7. He'll bludgeon through whoever he wants. Don't undestimate him.

That has always been the problems of the Democrats. According to Joe Dunn and Art Torres, Arnold didn't have a chance in the recall election. He destroyed worker's compensation with the approval of the legislature. The Dems will give him what he wants.

[genius]

4. Shelley's a hero. He needs to stay regardless.

[Jack Rabbit]

5. I agree he did some good things

He wouldn't certify voting machines that didn't pass a atrict standard.

However, look between the lines of that report. The Democratic Assembly leader is bargaining for the condition of Shelley's resignation. Whether we like it or not, he's toast.