Hey Big Daddy, I see that Arlen Specter is now a Democrat. Any thoughts on the Senator’s sudden change of heart?

Waffling in Weaverville

Hey Wafflin’, You know, there are several ways to persuade a politician. You can try a measured, reasoned argument – perhaps through a thoughtful letter or e-mail. You

Hey Big Daddy, The other day, I was on my way to John Garamendi’s office and I just about tripped over a giant bear statue in front of the governor’s office. What in the heck is that?

— Bearly Walking

Dear Bearly, Let’s forget for a moment that you were on your

Hey Big Daddy, What’s going on with these pirates in Somalia? I didn’t even know there were real pirates. What would you do to stop this madness?

-Cruisin’ for a Bruisin’

Hey Cruisin, Um, thanks for your question, I guess. You may not realize, but Somalia is slightly outside of my normal

Hey Big Daddy, So, this weekend is Easter. How are you going to be spending Easter Sunday? Will the Easter Bunny be making an appearance at your place?

 — Celebrating in Ceres

Hey Celebrating, Well, yes, it’s Easter. The springtime holiday that is supposed to signify rebirth and new beginnings and all

Hey Big Daddy,

It looks like every time I turn around, another Californian is being named to the Obama Cabinet. What gives? And what does it mean for California?

-Optimistic in Ontario

Hey Optimstic, You’re right. President Obama is snatching up Californians faster than AIG is grabbing stimulus dollars. There’s

Is John Burton ready to be Democratic Party Chairman?

Hey Big Daddy,

Who do you have in the NCAA Tournament this year? Have you filled out your bracket?

Gambling in Gualala

Hey Gambling, There are certain annual traditions not to be missed, and this week was one of my favorites. This week brought us the annual Stumble of the

Hey Big Daddy,

The last time more Californians were Registered Republicans than Democrats, Herbert Hoover was in the White House. In the last 50 years, the GOP has lost two-thirds of all statewide races. What gives these guys the right to demand they get anything in the budget?

Sincerely, Frustrated in

Hey Big Daddy,

What do you think of the governor appointing all these legislators to plum positions? Why is it that my pay is being cut by 9 percent, while all these other folks are getting new, high-paying jobs with pensions and health benefits? Something doesn’t seem right

-Furloughed in Fresno

Hey Big Daddy, As a Republican, a real Republican, I can’t wait until 2010. What’s your sense of the Republican gubernatorial field? –Hopeful in Hanford

Dear Hopeful,

I don’t mean to undermine your very core, given your moniker and all, but I’m not sure I’d get my hopes up if I