As first predicted here over three weeks ago [Stick a fork in it, Eyman’s done] Initiative 864 has failed to collect enough signatures to qualify for the ballot! Snatching failure from the jaws of defeat, Timmy inexplicably held a press conference to announce that he had collected about 150,000 signatures, well short of of the 198,000 needed.
As Tim announced the number, a gathering throng of angry librarians was suddenly whipped into a bacchanalian frenzy of joyful celebration. Okay… one of them clapped. But they looked happy. In a quiet, thoughtful way.
I’ll post a more detailed report later in the day.
As the word went out about I-864 not getting enough signitures at my library, there wasn\’t a lot of cheering. Just relief that all of us will probably still have our jobs for a while. Since 747 passed my staff has been reduced from 7 full-time staff (plus me, the supervisor) to 3 full-time staff plus me. We have cut hours and so far they have been minimal so people haven\’t really noticed. If I-864 had passed people would have lost their jobs.
We are still worried. The horse\’s ass says he will come back on the attack next year and I am going to fight against I-892 also.
Katy… by all means stay worried, but take a few moments to celebrate. Librarians played a key role in defeating I-864, and next year you and your co-workers will be even better prepared to refute his paid signature gatherers with the truth.
Eyman campaigns 12 months a year, and so must we.