Schwarzenegger faces complex equation in nominating next lieutenant governor

Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger has a plum political post to dole out after Lt. Gov. John Garamendi’s election to Congress on Tuesday vacates the No. 2 slot in California government.

Schwarzenegger, a Republican, has the power to name the replacement for Garamendi, a Democrat, in a political decision that has been much chattered about in Sacramento. That power, however, doesn’t rest with Schwarzenegger alone: the Democratic-dominated Legislature must confirm his pick, setting up a potential showdown.

Further complicating matters: Four sitting state senators are seeking the post in 2010. The lieutenant governor has few official powers, but the job appeals to politicians hoping to springboard their careers.

Speculation is rife that Schwarzenegger will choose a like-minded political moderate. One possibility is Sen. Abel Maldonado (R-Santa Maria), who regularly crosses party lines. He would vacate a legislative seat that Democrats could try to pick up.

Working against him: He’d probably run for reelection to the post as an incumbent, a perch the majority Democrats seem unlikely to concede.

Democrats would prefer a caretaker appointed until the 2010 elections -- or perhaps no one at all.

Other names bandied about: former Assembly Speaker Bob Hertzberg, a Democrat; former Los Angeles Mayor Richard Riordan, a Republican; Assemblyman Mike Villines (R-Clovis); and the governor’s former budget director Tom Campbell, a Republican now running for governor.

-- Shane Goldmacher in Sacramento

Comments

[Julian B Duron]

The Gov has his job cut out for himself on this decision, of who to appoint. But I have reservations on the State Assembly confirming his choice. This Assembly has nothing to show or brag about for its lack of leadership for the State of California. The Polls reflect this; they are even lower than the Governors ratings.
Mike Villines from 29th Assembly District will make a fine Lt Governor. Decision based on merit Assembly Villines would be a good choice. Also, on the east coast the Kool-Aid drinkers are now sobering up and are voting accordingly. Recent GOP wins!
The wave will start in upcoming California elections if this Assembly continues its political B.S.

[Johnathan Brooks]

I heard some speculation about Stan Statham the former Assemblyman from Redding being nominated. Has anyone heard this? I'd like to read more on it.

[Bruce]

Stan Statham ran for Lieutenant Governor before, is a moderate and is an independant. Probably would be a good pick to avoid a harmful battle for confirmation.

[Jennifer]

Jonathan,

You're right, Statham is one of the possible picks. There's not too much out there right now on the Lt Gov selection process, but here's more info on what you're seeking:

http://www.redcounty.com/lt-gov-watch-new-candidate-emerging-appointment

If you want to read more about Statham also I think there's a wiki out there with all his info, chronologically.