Rescue California

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State Democrats discussing 'caretaker' in case of recall
Candidate would only serve remainder of term

July 16, 2003

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last week's discussion among congressional Democrats indicates "that desperation is in the air."

"The recall is under way, the citizen movement can't be stopped, and the inevitable result is that there will be a new governor," Wilcox said.

No Democrat has stepped forward as a recall candidate, including statewide elected officials such as Bustamante, Attorney General Bill Lockyer and state Treasurer Phil Angelides, who are expected to run in 2006.

But many Democratic strategists believe Democrats need a name on the ballot to prevent a Republican from taking the governor's seat.

Lawmakers at last week's meeting said Pelosi expressed the same concern. "She stood up, and she said he (Davis) is history," said one congressman, who added that several people in the room were startled by Pelosi's candor.

One California Democratic strategist agreed that Pelosi "was pretty adamant about it – that Gray was toast."

Several sources said Democrats at the meeting discussed drafting a caretaker candidate who would serve the remainder of Davis' term but would not seek office in 2006.

One California Democratic strategist questioned whether anybody would be willing to tackle the state's budget crisis and then forgo the opportunity to run for a full term and govern in better economic times.

"Why would Leon want to do that, or anybody like Leon?" the strategist said.