With this example, how come W's handlers dealt with Katrina so poorly?

[raccoon]

"In 1965, President Johnson responded to the aftermath of Hurricane Betsy in New Orleans. He went there personally and he set an example of how it should have been handled.

On this 2nd memorial of such a tragic natural disaster and unnatural response from our Government, we should remember that Presidents have faced these kinds of disasters before and handled them far better. What's your excuse President Bush? What was more important than the victims of Hurricane Katrina?

The President's (Johnson) Remarks Upon Arrival at New Orleans Municipal Airport

Mr. Mayor and my friends of New Orleans:

Today at 3 o'clock when Senator Long and Congressman Boggs and Congressman Willis called me on behalf of the entire Louisiana delegation, I put aside all the problems on my desk to come to Louisiana as soon as I could. I have observed from flying over your city how great the catastrophe is that you have experienced. Human suffering and physical damage are measureless. I'm here this evening to pledge to you the full resources of the federal government to Louisiana to help repair as best we can the injury that has been done by nature….."

http://blog.johnedwards.com/story/2007/8/29/123444/249

Not to mention that in 2005, we got MUCH more news coverage than in 1965.

[aquart]

1. Because they didn't think anyone would care.

After all, THEY didn't.

[rudy23]

2. Today, they realize that a PR campaign is cheaper and easier than real work

Just make America hate New Orleans, and you don't have to spend a *dime* helping her out.

It worked like a charm.