Candidates planning a run for state office may face an unusual dilemma this winter. There are 35 legislative seats opening up because of term limits. But a measure on the February ballot may change that. From Sacramento, Marianne Russ explains.
More than 100 candidates have filed their intention to run for one of the open seats. They're raising money and setting up campaign headquarters. But a measure headed for the February ballot would let incumbent lawmakers stay in their seats a few more years. So what's a lawmaker wannabe to do?
Alan Hoffenblum is publisher of the California Target Book, which handicaps elections:
Hoffenblum : Once a candidate gets started, goes out and announces, raises money, gets endorsements, it's very hard for them to pull up and say, gee, I think I'll defer to the incumbent.
Hoffenblum is also a Republican strategist who managed campaigns for years. His advice to the incumbents who'd like to keep their jobs? Announce now you're planning to run for re-election if given the chance. The term limit measure is not yet officially on the ballot.
