RE: TM7's post "I can't readily agree with this idea. Why would the failure of local government in connection with federal government result in more jeopardy to the hallmark of being an American--i.e. personal freedom....it is illogical.? So there must be another motive by the leaders. "
Illogical? Inept, corrupt and timid state and local government authorities failed to plan for the Katrina disaster, and then they lacked the leadership to take the actions needed to prevent the loss of life and property when it happened. Both Nagin and Blanco should be on trial now for much of Katrina's aftermath. Both of these petty politicians sat on their butts, letting things go south, failing to act until it was too late, and then they waited for the feds to come and bail them out and blamed the feds for the outcome. President Bush offered federal troops and federalized national guard soldiers to assist early on, but Gov Blanco refused, fearful that she was being upstaged. Bush had no legal standing to send in troops without the consent of the governor. The result was that New Orleans became an open city, every man for himself. Now the President has the authority to intervene to prevent the loss of life and property and restore order when the state and local governments won't. Blame Nagin and Blanco for putting us in jeopardy.
