California's Democratic Party is led by an old guard. Both US Senators have served for 21 years. The Governor's running for his fourth term. There is not a rift over issues, but young Democrats are wondering, "When are these people going to leave?" With this year's party convention about to begin in Los Angeles, we talk about pent up ambition, the super-majority in Sacramento and the rise of the Independent voter. Also, new mortgage misery for California homeowners.
Later on To the Point, last year's rare, bi-partisan deals on spending limits and extending the debt ceiling eliminated threats of pushing the country over a "fiscal cliff." But this year's budget debate will be more interesting, rather than less. Both parties will have to reveal their priorities, at the risk of revealing internal divisions in the run-up to primary contests and November's general election.