| In the interest of speed and timeliness, this story is fed directly from the Associated Press newswire and may contain spelling or grammatical errors. |
Californians' comments Wednesday on the recall of Democratic Gov. Gray Davis and election of Republican Arnold Schwarzenegger:
``At least it's something different.'' Jason Rogers, 25, an independent from Fresno, who voted no on the recall and skipped the second part of the ballot.
``You had someone run who was unusual for the arena. That is, a bigger-than-life celebrity, an actor of all things, able to draw huge crowds and able to mesmerize not based on a program he put forward, but based on who he is.... That just took over.'' U.S. Sen. Dianne Feinstein, a Democrat, on Schwarzenegger.
``I think that the people of California decided to take charge and make changes instead of letting everything stay status quo. We all stood up and voiced our opinion. I'm proud of this state.'' Kevin Donaldson, 43, who voted for the recall and for Schwarzenegger.
``Arnold is in over his head. He doesn't know politics and he's got this dark cloud hanging over his head with these allegations. But who knows, maybe he can pardon himself.'' Democrat Richard Gahagan, 56, of Fresno, referring to allegations that Schwarzenegger harassed women.
``I think it's a wonderful thing that Republicans have elected a pro-choice, pro-gay rights, pro-gun control governor. I think that's wonderful.'' State Senate President Pro Tem John Burton, D-San Francisco.
``We needed a change. But I don't like Arnold. I had just seen him in the movies. I like him as an actor, but not as a governor. I'm scared. We don't know what's going to happen now. I wanted (Lt. Gov. Cruz) Bustamante.'' Jessica Miramontes, 21, a Camarillo gas station manager.
``This is like a joke to me. I'm so used to him just being an actor.'' Brenda Jones, 39, of Los Angeles on Schwarzenegger's election.
``People followed the bandwagon. People, they don't want to think for themselves.'' Yolanda Brown, 40, of Los Angeles, a Democrat who voted against the recall.
``I think emotionally he will restore confidence to the people of California. But secondly, because he has a mandate, I think the Legislature's going to work with him to make the kind of major cuts we need to make to get jobs back into California and to repeal all the stupid rules, laws and regulations that are antibusiness.'' Former Los Angeles Mayor Richard Riordan.
``Davis did nothing wrong so now what are we going to do? Recall Schwarzenegger as soon as the allegations are proved of his sexual harassment?'' Bill LaMonica, 53, a Democrat interviewed at a Fresno shopping mall.
``I cried in bed last night and let the puppy sleep on the bed with me, because I was so sad and discouraged. I feel much more cheerful this morning. I know God was not off doing the dishes during this election, and that goodness always wins out in the end.'' Marin County author Anne Lamott.
``I think it's a wonderful thing that happened, so I'm glad California voters were able to make a stand.'' Cia Hunter, 21, a law student at the University of Southern California.
``I don't know what it's going to be like when they work together. I think Bustamante just took the loss so personally, he's not going to cooperate.'' Public safety officer David Balthazar, 41, of Downey, on Schwarzenegger and Bustamante working alongside one another.