Arnold changes the equation

I'm as surprised as everyone else by the news that Arnold Schwarzenegger has entered the recall race for California governor. And now comes word that Lt. Gov. Cruz Bustamante will enter the race as well.

Lots still unknown. Richard Riordan, who feels he was double-crossed, is reportedly steamed. Arianna Huffington may be sorry she entered, 12 hours after her announcement.

As for the news media: OK, we'll let you guys have your 48 hours of celebrity gawking and tittering and bad Terminator puns. But we've got a $1 trillion economy to run.

If Arnold pursues a Rose Garden strategy of refusing to answer questions about his position on issues -- his announcement on last night's Tonight show was a tipoff that he's arrogant enough to believe he can ride his celebrity credentials right into the governor's mansion -- then the media need to hold his feet to the fire. Just what exactly are your positions on balancing the budget (which specific programs would you cut?), education, health care, prison reform, and dozens of other positions that the other candidates are spelling out.

You've already succeeded in turning the recall into an international spectacle, Arnold. Now let's see if there's any substance underneath those famous biceps.