With state tax revenues dropping $107 million in just the first two months of this fiscal year, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger said Californians can expect even more cuts in services.
"I wouldn't say the California economy is in a crisis but I think revenues have decreased. For instance, our revenues are projected to come in at least five billion dollars less this fiscal year than we anticipated. That is why we had to make a lot of cuts this year in the budget and we have to make additional cuts as time goes on because I think there'll be less revenues coming in," said Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger.
But that was about the extent of his remarks on the economy. The Q&A between the Governor and Time Editor Rick Stengel at the American Magazine Conference covered numerous topics. Much of the conversation was lighthearted.
Schwarzenegger said it's ok that his wife Maria Shriver supports Democrat Barack Obama, even though he supports John McCain.
"I remember when I went to the altar when I married her. I said I take this woman in sickness and in health and being a Democrat is a sickness," said Gov. Schwarzenegger.
On a serious note, he did urge both candidates to campaign on the issues instead of throwing barbs at each.
"Look at what the presidential campaign has been reduced to? Accusing each of things that has nothing to do with the economy, nothing to do with health care, has nothing to do with the environment," said Gov. Schwarzenegger.
The governor also said he supports changing the constitution to allow foreign born citizens to run for president.
"Absolutely. I remember that when McCain picked Sarah Palin, I called her and said that's what's wrong with the constitution. I said Miss Alaska is beating Mr. Universe, and can run for vice president or become president, I mean there's something off here. She didn't think it was that funny," said Gov. Schwarzenegger.
Among other things you may want to know about the governor:
"I lift weights five times a week and I do my cardio training pretty much everyday. My favorite movie I've seen was Batman," said Schwarzenegger.
