Since his historic election in October, Gov. Arnold
Schwarzenegger has won the approval of both of San Benito County’s
state representatives, who come from different parties.
Since his historic election in October, Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger has won the approval of both of San Benito County’s state representatives, who come from different parties.
Both Assemblymember Simon Salinas, D-Salinas, and State Sen. Jeff Denham, R-Merced, are pleased with the governor’s actions overall.
“It’s been great having a governor as accessible as this one is to both Republicans and Democrats,” Denham said. “The change in atmosphere is historic – each different agency feels empowered.”
Initially, it was difficult to tell if Schwarzenegger would create an environment conducive for both parties to work together, Salinas said.
“But I think he’s learned through a couple encounters that if he stays here and negotiates hard he can get things done,” he said. “He’s willing to be open and work to get compromises out of both sides.”
The next big hurdle Schwarzenegger faces is the budget, which will give politicians a true glimpse of what he’s made of, Salinas said.
“It will test his ability to keep everyone at the table,” he said.
Salinas concedes that he has had some real concerns with some of Schwarzenegger’s actions, but overall he believes the governor has realized that to get things done he has to engage both parties, he said.
“He’s doing that,” Salinas said. “And the more he does, the more it develops a trust that we need as we deal with further challenges.”
