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I don't believe FEMA has the authority to go in and do anything before the fact. They are a strictly responsive agency. The city of New Orleans and the state of Louisiana could have definitely done more beforehand.

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And after.

Just look at the difference between NO and the MS coast. The people in MS banded together and worked to help each other. They didn't shoot at rescuers and wholesale loot what was left, they pulled together. And remember their entire cities were demolished.
Also look at the difference between the elected governments in the two places, NO and the MS coast. MS has a strong Republican Governor. He told it like it was, stating that we would be in for hard times. IE No gas, water, food or ice. He got the people motivated to survive.
Then look at the mostly Democratic government of NO. The first news conference was all about who is going to come fix our problem for us. Never once giving the kind of leadership that encourages people to HELP in the relief and band together. Just look at all the drug (Crack) vials found at the Super Dome. Just look at all the killings and rapes. Several rescuers attacked and their boats taken. That city government should be ashamed of itself.
I know there were poor folk that had no choice and got caught, but over half the stranded had the means but CHOSE to stay. And now they cry foul after not getting helped sooner and blame everyone but themselves.
Just fucking unbelievable. And yes I live down here close to NO and travel there for business monthly. So I do know how that town operates, or should I say works. Up until now all the city government wanted was our all mighty dollar so the elected could line their pockets.
The ghost oh Huey P Long must still be alive.