As for point number 2, I think that idiotic spending is more to blame than idiotic tax cuts. Both Republicans and Democrats in the legislature have been guilty of enacting expensive and often ill-conceived legislation. I am convinced that there is an awful lot of wasteful, unecessary govermental spending in California. I also think that there is some merit to claims that California's higher taxes tend to drive some businesses out of California while discouraging startup of new businesses, thus decreasing the tax base and revenues.

I have no argument with point number 3. I have no doubt that greedy businessmen have eagerly taken advantage of the California Government's propensity to spend, largely with the complicity of Gray Davis in his eagerness to reward those who gave him campaign contributions.

I'm glad you at least agree that Gray Davis and California Democrats are not blameless (nor are California Republicans, for that matter). As I understand it, even among California Democrats, there are few who think that Gray Davis has done a good job as Governor. I would like to see Dick Riordan replace him, as he reportedly did a marvelous job of turning Los Angeles around for the better (especially financially) while serving as Mayor there.

But, I suppose this is enough of a digression from your valid criticism of Johnny's post, which was, after all, the main point of your original post.

Respectfully in turn,