Even by the low standard of its own past performance the California legislature's conclusion to its legislative session over Labor Day weekend set a new mark for political chaos. In quick order the legislature moved to adjourn, the governor proclaimed a special session, the assembly assented—and the senate refused, adjourning until December. An impasse resulted, with the assembly speaker insisting on considering the special session bill (it's about fuel prices), the senate president pro tem declaring the matter closed, and the official word from the governor's office amounting to "stay tuned." The problem all three actors face is that the only realistic solution here is a political compromise (gasp!) because none of them have any better options.