Geez, finally a well-written, soundly-reasoned and interesting story on this topic. A professional take by a pro! Thanks Mr. Barton for taking the reins on a story Sacramento Press can own. Too often, we think "sports" and not "entertainment" when we think Arena. This is a no-brainer for smart downtown development. I look forward to reading more.

Good posts. You make some very good points and observations Dale Kooyman. Great food for thought! Thanks!

You want polls? We got polls. Here are the two most recent (last 30-60 days) that ask about Big Government. They were commissioned by left-leaning mainstream media outlets. I didn’t bother posting those done by Rasmussen or Fox, which you would consider right-leaning. So, you get the benefit of the doubt. Washington Post/ABC News: 58 percent want smaller government, fewer services. 38 percent saw it the other way. CNN/Opinion Research Corp: 56 percent think “the federal government's become so large and powerful that it poses an immediate threat to the rights and freedoms of ordinary citizens.” 44 percent disagree. Medicare and Social Security were inacted many years ago. Voters are OK with keeping them, but they're not OK with government adding layers of additional debt and social programs without thoroughly analyzing and legislating. Nobody wants people on the streets but the reality is that they've been there for centuries - some by choice, others by circumstance. The US bends over backwards to help its people - legal and illegal.

Mr. Knapp: Here's why "Everyone else who seems to read and respond to Sac Press seems to think that more government is the answer to everything." Because you're talking to basically a Midtown/Downtown audience where the far left thrives. Poll after poll nationally shows big majorities do not want "more government." If you post here Mr. Knapp, expect to get hammered. It's not a level playing field.

I agree with the previous posters. Stop with the racist "my people" platforms and represent ALL people. I would never vote for this guy and understand why he can't raise money.