HNN Poll: What Does Arnold's Race for Governor Say About American Democracy?

If California's recall election were held today, Democrat Gray Davis would be swept out as governor and Republican political rookie Arnold Schwarzenegger would be swept in. -- USA Today (August 11, 2003)

He is not the first actor to run for office. Before Arnold there was Ronald Reagan; Sonny of Sonny and Cher fame; that guy from the"Love Boat"; and, in the 19th century, Phineas T."a sucker born every minute" Barnum of Barnum & Bailey.

And before Arnold, years ago, there was Pappy O'Daniel, the Depression-era candidate for governor of Texas who became famous as the singing host of a radio show. After winning two terms he went on to the United States Senate after defeating Lyndon Johnson in the 1941 Democratic primary.

But Arnold is the first Mr. Universe to run for governor and the first candidate for major office to be photographed with a bare-breasted woman on his shoulders (the picture is circulating on the Internet). And we can't recall another candidate who announced for high office on the Jay Leno show.

Polls give him the edge in the election.

Is this a positive development for American democracy?