It's a safe bet that legislation to move up California's presidential primary from June to February will soon become law. Analysts say now more than ever, the candidates will need the help of the state's legislative leaders. From Sacramentio, Jenny O'Mara reports.
Political Science Professor Bruce Cain says with a likely earlier primary in California, presidential candidates will need to tap into campaign cash quickly. So the endorsement of a state legislative leader --with ties to wealthy donors-- plays an even more important role.
Cain: You really can't run an effective grassroots campaign in California the way you can in Iowa or even in New Hampshire. It's really an air wars battle and to get on the air takes a lot of money.
Legislative leaders and the Governor have been meeting with the candidates. Democratic Assembly Speaker Fabian Nunez met recently with Senator and Presidential candidate Barack Obama. Governor Schwarzenegger has appeared with Republicans John McCain and Rudy Giuliani.
