State Politics in 2002

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California voters wanted open primaries so they could vote for any candidate regardless of party. Four years ago, they got what they wanted. The established parties appealed to the US Supreme Court, which threw it out. Now, it appears that maneuver might have backfired on Democrats and Republicans, giving Independents more power than ever before. We learn more about California's new "semi-open" primary, and why, despite real issues like taxes and energy, there may be a shortage of real contests for both the Legislature and Congress. Helping us sort it all out are Bruce Cain, director of the Institute of Governmental Studies at UC Berkeley, Republican political consultant Allan Hoffenblum and Democratic media consultant Bill Carrick.
  • Reporter's Notebook: Pasadena's Non-Traditional Rose Bowl and National Championship Game
    The Rose Parade is all over but the Rose Bowl game hasn't even begun. The Pasadena Star News reports that after yesterday's Tournament of Roses Parade there was just half the amount of litter that trash collectors have seen in past years. Editor Larry Wilson, who attributes the dearth of dirt to decreased attendance and increased security, says that TV demands for a bigger audience postponed the big game.

State of California

California Democratic Party

California Republican Party

California Target Book

UC Berkeley's Institute of Governmental Studies

Pasadena Star News

Rose Parade & Rose Bowl Game

Credits

Host:

Warren Olney

Producer:

Frances Anderton