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It came as no surprise to anyone that propositions 1A through 1E were shot down in flames by angry voters in California.  "No more taxes, get out the axes!"

That's why they were put there.  Easy targets!

At the end of 2008, the politicians in Sacramento had no clue what to do about the impending budget disaster.  They pondered, they fretted, they pointed fingers at the opposing party, and they did nothing.  Finally, someone figured out that if they weren't intelligent enough to fix the system, and they weren't courageous enough to make the really difficult cuts, they could pass it on to the people of the state:  set up "straw men" propositions that the voters could vent their anger on, rant about, and then, soundly defeat.

The voters feel empowered, the governor and legislature can say, "The people have spoken," and they can now make all of the draconian cuts to education, health services, police protection and fire protection with a clear conscience and flawless voting records (except Roy Ashburn, of course).

If you think voting down the propositions and passing 1F hurt Sacramento, think again.  The force field surrounding the legislature, their aides, lobbyists, and the status quo in the capital is still functioning and they still haven't a clue as to how to fix anything.  The unprotected people outside the "golden dome" will quickly feel the effects of the governor's May Revise Budget Bomb.