The new redistricting maps will be released Friday. Assuming – a big assumption – that more districts will be competitive, what does this mean for 2012? Will Democrats get a two-thirds control of the Legislature?

The maps do not guarantee

A “paycheck protection” initiative is brewing for next year’s ballot. If it qualifies, what impact do you think it will have on the election?

Unleash the hounds.

Ironically, “paycheck protection” will motivate the Democratic base to turn out more than

 “Whither Arnold Schwarzenegger? Does he do Terminator 4 and have success in the public arena or does he slink off into the sunset?”

Arnold Schwarzenegger “slink off into the sunset?” That’s like asking if a peacock will stop preening

“Is 2012 the year that Democrats win two-thirds majorities in the Assembly or Senate – or both?”

It all depends on two things: redistricting and the Top Two election format. If the Gaines race is any indication, all-cut budget types

“Does anyone, anywhere see the possibility of a compromise agreement on the state budget? If so, what would it be?”

The possibility of compromise exists. Republicans aren’t so hidebound and moronic that every single one of them would hold out

The compensation commission, which zapped lawmakers’ state-paid cars, is considering eliminating per diem. Is this prudent fiscal policy or just more Legislature bashing?

Geez, honestly, I am ALMOST starting to feel sorry for them – and also for lobbyists –

“The CTA (and some others, too) is urging Brown to forget the ballot and push for legislative approval of his tax plan. Brown says he still wants a budget election. What’s the best outcome here?”

The unions are afraid that

“A ‘Hail Mary’ at the 11th hour? Gov. Brown goes on the road to sell his budget to the public. Why? Is he launching a campaign for his own ballot initiative?”

Road trips didn’t work for Arnold and they won’t

“The budget, what else? The negotiations have blown up with a bang. So what happens now?”

Severe and painful cuts.

Brown now has to do what he should have done in the first place – start collecting signatures for a

“Is a November ballot initiative on tax extensions feasible? That’s a possibility eyed by Brown, who thus far can’t pry loose Republican votes for his special election on the budget.”

Of course it’s feasible: you can get anything on the