[kabar]

Yes, you're right that he should've erred on the side of saving lives. But there would've been huge political cost.

It's called principle and character. If there would be a huge political cost, I think the Dems would have borne most of it if they attacked the President for taking action. The Governor and Mayor are extremely vulnerable for their role (read lack of action and preparedness) in this crisis.

[shhrubbery!]

If there would be a huge political cost, I think the Dems would have borne most of it if they attacked the President for taking action.

There is no doubt about it.

If President Bush had wrested control from Kathleen Blank-0, early enough to save lives, you know what we'd be hearing now from the ACLU, NOW, "The Feminist Majority," Hillary Clinton and their cohorts in the media?

"Bush hates powerful women !!!"

"Bush hates states' rights!!!"

"Bush is shredding our Constitution!!!"

"Bush is acting like a dictator!!!"

"Bush is Hitler!!!"

"Impeach Bush -- he violated the law!!!"