[HAL9000]

Just a reminder of how Bill Clinton used to disrupt emergency operations immediately after a disaster struck. He had a knack for making a bad situation worse with his photo-op visits. The media loved it, but it was a lousy deal for the victims.

In contrast, President Bush supports disaster victims in ways that are more valuable and practical - but he stays out of the way and allows emergency crews to do their work without unnecessary interruptions.

I've seen some Leftist criticism against President Bush for declaring an emergency before Katrina struck land, and I suspect they will criticize him for not rushing to New Orleans tomorrow. We should remind them how Bill Clinton compounded the misery and suffering of the victims and interferred with emergency workers during his unnecessary visits during rescue and recovery efforts. I'm confident President Bush will pick a more appropriate time, and his tour will not hamper relief efforts.

[HAL9000]

From yesterday's Press Gaggle with Scott McClellan and Dr. Mark McClellan -

Q Are there any plans so far to go to Florida?

MR. McCLELLAN: No updates to the President's schedule. Right now, our focus continues to be on making sure that we're saving lives and focused on getting help to those who are in harm's way.

[coconutt2000]

I think Bush did the right thing by declaring an Emergency before Katrina struck.

It would've been odd if he'd declared it a Major Disaster Area before the hurricane struck, but an emergency declaration is not out of the ordinary.

[SunkenCiv]

Thanks to HAL9000 for this gem.