And it looks like he's succeeding -- with the help of "journalists". One could easily argue (and I've seen many who have) that the statement, "The Indian gaming tribes with Proposition 70 are trying to rip off California." is not racist.
But that is not what Schwarzenegger said! The comment that got Schwarzenegger into trouble was actually, simply, "The Indians are ripping us off."
Schwarzenegger is trying to pull a bait-and-switch regarding his original comment. He now says, "Read my lips: The Indian gaming tribes behind Proposition 70 are trying to rip off California. I will say it again and again and again. That's why they are upset. Because the truth hurts." Notice how he is trying to imply that this new comment is the same as his original comment? It is not!
Take a look at this article from Reuters:
http://www.reuters.com/newsArticle.jhtml?type=domesticNews&storyID=6587151&src=rss/domesticNews§ion=news Notice how the story is being manipulated? Notice that the article does not include Schwarzenegger's original comment? Notice how they are trying to give the impression that groups are upset over Schwarzenegger's criticism of Native American casinos rather than at his insensitive remarks which clearly reflect an "us against them" mentality?
I might add that I personally have no strong opinions on the casino issue itself. I don't live in an area of the country where it's a big concern, and I haven't taken the time to research the issue in any depth. My objection is to the revisionism I see happening with this story.