July 26, 2007

What is a 'real' Republican?

GOP activists have been accusing Schwarzenegger of being a RINO -- a Republican in name only -- in part because of his environmental policies. But today's PPIC poll suggests that the governor might be more in line with the party than are the conservatives who control its heirarchy.

Some examples of where Republican voters stand, according to the poll:

On the state law requiring automakers to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from new models by 2009:

Favor: 71 percent
Oppose: 26 percent

On the law (AB 32) requiring California to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions to 1990 levels by 2020:

Favor: 65 percent
Oppose: 26 percent

On the idea of requiring automakers to significantly improve the fuel efficiency of the cars they sell:

Favor, even if more costly: 71 percent
Favor, but not if more costly: 10 percent
Oppose: 14 percent

On spending more government money to develop renewable energy:

Favor: 79 percent
Oppose: 18 percent

On one major issue -- offshore oil drilling -- Schwarzenegger is at odds with rank and file Republican voters.

By a margin of 60 percent to 34 percent, Republicans favor more offshore oil drilling. Schwarzenegger opposes it.

And by a margin of 55 percent to 37 percent, Republicans favor building more nuclear power plants. Schwarznegger, as far as I know, has not staked out a position on that issue.

Posted by dweintraub on July 26, 2007 7:55 AM