Are the stars aligned?

California's elections are not far off, but the stars may already be lining up that could spell big changes...

Yesterday, a ballot measure designed to toss California's recently approved Proposition 8 (prohibiting same-sex marriages) died on the vine. For lack of the needed number of petition signatures, the repeal failed to qualify for the November ballot. While the movement isn't dead, it is on ice for at least a couple years. More immediately, this could spell big troubles for U.S. Barbara Boxer (D) and probably Democratic gubernatorial candidate/current state attorney general/former Gov. Jerry Brown (D). While California is a deeply blue state, neither candidate is beloved by party faithful (nor independents). A "progressive" proposition would surely bring more liberal-minded voters to the polls. This turn of events is not good news for Dems...


The battle continues - in 2012? (Photo: LA Times blogs)

While the Dow closed above 11,000, this week, will it last? For the party in power, it had better. But Wall Street ain't Main Street...and Main Street is still hurting. When it comes down to it, voters will always check their wallets - first -before pulling a lever. For the Dems, former Clinton Labor secretary Robert Reich doesn't seem to paint a pretty picture: "The jobs picture still looks Bleak." Which, in a state that still is at or near the top when it comes to joblessness, home foreclosures, commercial real estate problems - and more - voters want to see their personal numbers mirror (if not better) the Dow's.

Meanwhile, back at the ranch...er, White House: the president's push for health insurance reform doesn't seem to be helping anyone on either side of the aisle. Support for ObamaCare repeal is at 58% (which, together with a faltering economy, is translating into bad numbers for him - his lowest yet). If the mood persists or worsens, Dem candidates in California - and elsewhere - will need to think about updating their resumes.

Of course, it isn't helping the president's numbers as the personal income of Americans is falling...

Nor is it helping that even the experts are thinking what everyone knows - the recession may not be over...

A bit of advice for California Dems and GOPers, alike: heed the signs.