A "National Referendum" On Iraq War

Upping the ante on a plan he announced last week, the leader of the California Senate says that the ballot of every state holding an early presidential primary should also include a referendum on ending the war in Iraq.

Senate President pro Tem Don Perata introduced legislation today calling for a non-binding advisory measure where California voters could weigh in on the war. The measure would appear on next February's presidential primary ballot.

The Oakland Democrat has taken a few hits since making the announcement, most notably from critics who say it's merely a cynical ploy to boost voter turnout for an election that may also see a term limits reform initiative on the ballot.

But Perata broadened his quest today, by sending letters to the governors of all 20 states that have either decided, or are pondering, a February 5, 2008 presidential primary. The letter urges them to jump on board with his idea for a popular vote on the war.

"I propose we also use this opportunity to tell the current President where we stand on this fundamental issue of the day," writes Perata. "It's time for our citizens to be heard."

The pro tem's office says he also sent similar letters to each of the Democratic presidential candidates.