Glad you mentioned that.
This is not the LARGEST oil spill on record. Someone posted a map showing graphically the oil spills around the world, and this one was one of the smallest.
BUT, the DANGER will come from the HANDLING of the MESS.
We are a nation that had the resources, the money, and the offer of total cooperation from other nations (without charge) to deal with this released oil and prevent any damage.Other nations, which had larger spills, less money, less 'emergency boom equipment' in preparedness, older technology, and less help, performed much better.
When the President of the nation, with all the government services, and the various military and guard manpower, is unable to facilitate a quick and effective response.... it is not because he can't......it is because he doesn't want to.
Yes , if the criminals were out of the loop this could be handled very quickly and effectively.