The storm over Katrina

In: Commentary, Band 120, Heft 5, S. 34-41

Abstract

Charges that better leadership and speedy reaction from the George W. Bush Administration could have prevented or reduced the devastating effects of Hurricane Katrina are questioned. Rather than acknowledge the climatic and geographic reality of New Orleans, it is asserted that the national media, enthusiastic to identify a human culprit for the regional devastation, manipulated the emotions of affected people, resulting in unwarranted anger toward the Bush Administration. Although Bush is criticized for failing to provide appropriate symbolic leadership during the Hurricane Katrina crisis and the Federal Emergency Management Agency's shortcomings are recognized, it is stressed that local and state officials should be held responsible for creating inadequate evacuation plans. Accusations that racial resentment toward African Americans contributed to federal agencies' apparent slow response to crisis conditions are addressed and ultimately discharged. Moreover, it is maintained that local political corruption, unprofessional media reporting, and the perpetuation of the myths of New Orleans may prevent the suitable reconstruction of the New Orleans area. It is concluded that future planning for New Orleans' reconstruction must consider the region's environmental and geographic reality.