George Putnam
Saturday, Nov. 9, 2002

It is this reporter's opinion that any charismatic, hard-hitting Republican other than Simon could have won the governorship of the state of California. The incumbent, Gray Davis, has made every mistake possible. The state of California has uncounted and increasing problems in education, health, crime, traffic ... even water. His energy fiasco will affect us for years to come.

There is no possibility of solving giant fiscal problems with budget cuts alone without devastating health and public safety programs. The state, at this moment, is $10 billion in the hole – with a $25 billion potential deficit for the coming year!

Yet in this lackluster campaign, neither candidate offered a plan – not even a hint – as to how to solve the problem. One commentator referred to California as a "fiscal hell." Another referred to the two candidates as "dull and duller."

Non-voters ruled the day.

In this present day of media-driven politics, where television takes center stage in electing men and women to public office, there appear to be four qualifying C's: Charisma, Catch their attention, Character (where there is one) and Courage.

Davis and Simon appeared to fail on all counts ... but, as I suggested, anyone could have beaten Davis by concentrating on the No. 1 and exploding problem that we face every day in the southwestern United States – the illegal alien invasion. Simon could have gone all out. He could have said to the electorate:

"Every phase of our lives is being overcome by uninvited, unwanted hordes from without who are violating the sovereignty of the United States and impacting on America. The day I am elected your governor, though I realize it is basically a federal problem, I will use the gubernatorial platform in every way possible to stem this tide of invaders and concentrate on the president and the Congress to bring it to a halt. And I would make every effort to restore Proposition 187, which you so overwhelmingly voted for – the issue that would curtail the many privileges extended to illegals. Eighty-six percent voted for it; one judge reversed your decision."

I assure you that if Simon had done exactly that, he would have been elected governor of the state of California.

If for a moment you think it wouldn't work, take the case of Congressman Tom Tancredo of the state of Colorado. He won over his opponent 2 to 1 on the issue of illegal aliens pouring across our borders. Tom Tancredo was attacked viciously in his own sixth congressional district by the most powerful newspaper in Denver. Not only did he survive, but his easy victory also proved to be a giant vindication.

Tom Tancredo laid the issue on the line when he told this reporter: "George, it's the Democratic and Republican parties who are the key obstacles to solving America's illegal immigration crisis. Democrats want their votes; Republicans want their cheap labor." Phyllis Schlafly echoed those thoughts, as do I.

Simon, the Republican candidate, should have faced the issue. Simon should have known, as Tancredo does, that if you stand for something – if you stand for principles – there is nothing to fear.

Prediction: The illegal alien issue will be at the top of the list when the candidates line up for election in the year 2004. Remember, I said it.

The legendary George Putnam is 88 years young and a veteran of 68 years as a reporter, broadcaster and commentator ... and is still going strong. George is part of the all-star line-up of Southern California's KPLS Radio – Hot Talk AM 830.

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Read more on this subject in related Hot Topics:
Immigration/Borders
California Governor's Race

Editor's note:
David Horowitz shows "How to Beat the Democrats"