Information gleaned from observing the scene is incomplete and subject to misinterpretation (for example, the shooting incident yesterday). If they observe something, they should check with their government sources to verify it.
That is why it would not be responsible for Chertoff to let CNN be his sitrep consultant.
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Yes, as iThinkBig quoted from President Reagan, "trust but verify".
I hope at least as many prayers for wisdom and guidance are going up as there is second guessing and criticism.
Maybe we are OK with this.