For the Workers Independent News, I’m Jesse Russell with the last of three special reports on the November 8th special election in California. Last week opponents of Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger's ballot initiatives gathered on the steps of San Francisco City Hall. WIN correspondent Grace Turner files this report.

[Chanting, "Vote Early, Vote No!"]

Waving signs reading "Vote No!" opponents of California governor, Arnold Schwarzenegger stood on the steps of San Francisco City Hall. They were there to vote early for the November 8th Special Election. San Francisco mayor Gavin Newsom warned against the governors initiatives.

[Newsom1] "These initiatives have been brought to you by folks out in Washington DC that have been trying to find ways to divide this country to divide labor and the Democratic party. They're trying to find ways to deal with advancing their agenda against the agenda of those who are pro-choice, pro-labor, pro-environment and that's what this election is about."

Appearing on the ballot are initiatives regarding: parental notification for teenagers seeking abortions, lengthening teachers probationary period, labor union clout, the quality of government services, redistricting, prescription drug costs and electricity supplies.

[Newsom2] "Make no mistakes, to listen to the governor say, 'Well I may be supportive of silencing corporations', well why didn't you do that in this election governor?"

Voter turnout will be key. Secretary of State, Bruce McPherson, predicted 42% will vote. A poll last week predicted turnout could reach 50%. In San Francisco and at polling stations statewide, there are already an unprecedented number of absentee ballots coming in.
California state treasurer Phil Angelides says high voter turnout is bad news for governor Arnold Schwarzenegger.