The target of a recall in California is entitled to a 200-word official response. Gov. Schwarzenegger filed his today, in response to a notice of recall advanced by the state's prison guards' union. It reads:

"This recall petition is special interests politics at its worst. It's not about the people of California; it's an intimidation tactic by the prison guards' union to force Governor Schwarzenegger into giving them a bigger contract. The bosses want the same sweetheart deal Governor Davis gave them after $3 million in campaign contributions. When Governor Schwarzenegger ran for office he said if special interests try to push him around, he would push back.

"The Los Angeles Times said this union is 'fooling no one.' The Sacramento Bee called it a 'self-serving grab for power and money.' The San Diego Union-Tribune says it's a 'bullying tactic.' The San Jose Mercury News calls this an attempt to 'pressure' the Governor to 'give away the store like his predecessor.'

"Even Democrat lawmaker Jackie Speier said this union has 'a lock on the Legislature... They telegraph loud and clear: 'If you cross us, we'll take you out.''

"It's offensive that one special interest is using a recall to get more money. California faces a financial crisis and this union's leadership wants $1.3 billion more from taxpayers. Governor Schwarzenegger refuses to be intimidated and will do what's best for California, not a special interest."