HARD TIMES

In an article called "Gov's Candid Moments . . ." the Los Angeles Times printed the text of some recorded comments made by Mr. Schwarzeneger in a private meeting with aides. I believe the Times has crossed the line and I wrote them the following letter:

The infamous Nixon tapes of the 1970s revealed a president who was a ruthless campaigner, perfectly willing to violate the Constitution and break the law in order to retain power. They were pivotal pieces of evidence in the impeachment case against him, which lead to his eventual resignation.

The Schwarzenegger tapes, portions of which are published in Friday’s Times, are meaningless snippets of conversation showing, at worst, that the Governor, like most people, is somewhat less generous in private when referring to his colleagues and competitors than he is in public. These are not candid moments, as the title of the article implies, they are private moments, having no relevance whatever to public issues, and no reason whatever to be published by the Times.

Phil Angelides lost no time in trying to use the Governor’s comments to gain political advantage, a sad comment I think on his own character. I am a Democrat and would like to see Shcwarzeneger lose in November, but this is inappropriate.

The Times should be embarrassed for publishing the piece. The Governor would be well within his rights to sue.

A foot on either side.

1 XCZR