Rise of the Media Machine

Arnold Schwarzenegger's "current California media tour to promote his plans for reforming state government looks like a resounding success - if only because the California media, rather than turning up the heat, often ends up in marshmallow mode with the state's famous governor." While some ask about his "proposed merit pay for teachers, the state's budget deficit, nursing reform and pension overhaul," recent interview questions include, "Do you miss the movies?" and "You won what, five Mr. Universe titles?" Political science professor Barbara O'Connor says the "few reporters who cover state government on a regular basis" and Schwarzenegger's "celebrity status" help him "set the media agenda in a way we haven't seen in a long time."

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