California Democrats to the Governor: Let’s Make a Deal

Democrats who control California’s legislature said on Friday they may allow Republican Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger to make mid-year budget cuts if he drops his support for a ballot measure headed for the November special election that would cap state spending, Proposition 76.

Democratic lawmakers oppose the measure and believe a better way to keep the state’s books balanced is for the governor to be able to make so-called “mid-year corrections” in spending.

“That’s a good starting point,” said John Laird, the Democratic chairman of the Assembly budget committee.

“I think there is a real desire to reach some kind of global settlement,” Laird said. “It’s clearly among lawmakers, but I think the governor is interested.”

California governors had authority to rewrite spending plans during the course of the state’s year until the early 1980s, when it was bargained away in a budget deal.

Spokeswoman Margita Thompson said Schwarzenegger would be interested in talks with Democrats on budget-related reforms, but noted the measure he is backing also would give him the ability to make mid-year budget adjustments.

“The governor would love it if the legislature would truly engage and come up with some solutions,” Thompson said.

The Governor needs to stay the course and not be SQUISHY.

Cross-posted to The Bear Flag League Special Election Page.