I'm glad to hear Angelides endorsed Prop. 89, California's clean money initiative. Early word was he'd stay out of that one, preferring to keep the special interests on his side during a sure to be expensive gubernatorial campaign. It's a sign of his character -- and possibly desperation -- that he did precisely the opposite. That there was such concern over whether a liberal Democrat like Angelides would endorse such a terrific measure, though, illustrates exactly how hard it is to get such initiatives passed. After they're implemented, the special interests and big funders can be largely excised from the equation. Before, however, all those groups can mount a concerted attack, and use their power and influence to keep prominent pols from throwing their support behind the propositions. For now, even with Angelides' endorsement, Prop. 89 has a tough road ahead of it. But at least it stands a chance.
