hold them accountable.
As the week began, Hurricane Katrina was viewed as a disaster. As we head into this weekend, it's more overwhelming than 9/11. And we, as a nation, ought to be asking some serious questions of our elected officials.
Hurricane Katrina is beyond a canary in the mineshaft for Homeland Security. We clearly are NOT prepared for another major disaster, whether it's brought on by nature or terrorists.
For four years, people like me have been vehement in holding this government accountable for making changes to make us safer. They have failed.
No, the president is not at fault for a Category 4 hurricane winging a major city (think about the destruction had it been a direct hit). But the president and Congress are to blame for not taking the necessary steps to respond quickly. As it is, the cavalry rode it about 48 hours later than they should have.
This is precisely why many people, myself included, have been saying homeland security must begin with first responders in the cities. It's been hotly debated for quite some time now. Mayors want to beef up emergency response at their level while the federal government is less inclined.
I think we can see now how important it is for disaster relief to be strong at the state and city level.
And between you and me, to hear Bush, DeLay and other elected officials patting one another on the back this morning for the great job they're doing is absolutely nauseating.
Wake up, America. It's time to demand a better president and better representation at every level. Instead of playing along, shutting up and burying your head in the sand, it's time to hold them accountable.
We have learned NOTHING in the wake of 9/11.
Consider Katrina a dry run for terrorists. We've been warned.
Twice.
Hurricane Katrina is beyond a canary in the mineshaft for Homeland Security. We clearly are NOT prepared for another major disaster, whether it's brought on by nature or terrorists.
For four years, people like me have been vehement in holding this government accountable for making changes to make us safer. They have failed.
No, the president is not at fault for a Category 4 hurricane winging a major city (think about the destruction had it been a direct hit). But the president and Congress are to blame for not taking the necessary steps to respond quickly. As it is, the cavalry rode it about 48 hours later than they should have.
This is precisely why many people, myself included, have been saying homeland security must begin with first responders in the cities. It's been hotly debated for quite some time now. Mayors want to beef up emergency response at their level while the federal government is less inclined.
I think we can see now how important it is for disaster relief to be strong at the state and city level.
And between you and me, to hear Bush, DeLay and other elected officials patting one another on the back this morning for the great job they're doing is absolutely nauseating.
Wake up, America. It's time to demand a better president and better representation at every level. Instead of playing along, shutting up and burying your head in the sand, it's time to hold them accountable.
We have learned NOTHING in the wake of 9/11.
Consider Katrina a dry run for terrorists. We've been warned.
Twice.
