The Nation

I posted this yesterday. I've got some time now to comment of this article, in some depth.

First off this is nothing more than a poor attempt at "gotcha" politics. This is the first article I've read by David Corn, so I can't comment on him, only this one article. However it is truly "gotcha politics". Now to be fair both sides engage in it, and both are equally wrong.

New Orleans has been below the water table for a heck of a lot longer than the Bush presidency (either one). To accuse him or his administration of being asleep at the switch is sheer folly. Numerous administrations, federal and state, have had the opportunity and means to heighten the walls of the levies. All have for one reason or another, chosen not to do so. Mostly, I suspect, they were gambling that the big one wouldn't hit, or bring as big a punch as it has. Very similar to the same way that folks are gambling that a large earthquake centered on the San Andreas fault line in California won't happen, and for much the same reasons. Economics. It is cheaper to do nothing than prepare for a one in a million shot. It is unfortunate, but none the less true. There are some things (Acts of God) that you just can not plan for, nor anticipate it's severity. You can game plan until you're blue in the face, but once the worst happens you do the best you can with what you have at the time.

I suspect that Mr. Corn has never been through a hurricane, nor seen first hand what it leaves in its passing. Roads are blocked, power lines down, streets flooded and general chaos. These I've seen first hand. Those that await the government to help them will wait. Those that help themselves and neighbors will fare far better. By helping themselves, I do not advocate (as Mr Corn does) looting the shops of your neighbors. That is abhorrent. To advocate such is nothing less than despicable.

Aid is coming into the region as fast as it is able. However, the wheels of the federal government grind slow.

Mr Corn's accusations are neither welcome nor timely. His tone is shrill and his message poor. The one thing I will say for him is that his call to give is indeed true. Please donate to the Red Cross as they are the best hope to get relief to those who need it quickest and best. There are other relief agencies out there. Visit FEMA for a list of organizations and please dig deep.

God Bless the United States, and may His mercy fall on those in need.