Even though the California constitution essentially allows a recall for just about any reason, to use it for a purpose other than blatant malfeasance or corruption is a terribly dangerous thing.

Why? Because elections and campaigns are all-consuming endeavors. They take up a TREMENDOUS amount of time, energy, and attention. That is time, energy, and attention that is no longer being devoted to public policy and the business of running the state.

Case in point: Look at the California budget. The governor, for all of his faults, proposed an arguably responsible budget in January. It balanced this year (no long-term deficit), made significant cuts to nearly all state programs, and yes, increased taxes. Maybe not the best proposal, but given the choices it made, it actually demonstrated some leadership on his part.

Then the recall became a serious possibility. What happened with the May budget revision? The governor protected education, corrections, and public safety (police, fire) programs, because those were the consituencies he wanted standing next to him if the recall became serious. What was the cost?

To offset that increased spending, the May revise (and the budget proposed to be adopted Sunday) includes billions of dollars in borrowing, and 100% guarantees a $7-10 billion deficit again next year.

This is why recalls can be dangerous. Politicians who are constantly in campaign mode make decisions based on votes, not on the long-term interests of the state.