We send our deepest sympathies, support and assistance to Minneapolis people and the programs that can help.
Of all the programs that may be able to help and offer guidance, what is the role of FEMA or FHWA in this situation? Is the scale of this disaster the sort that a state handles?
We notice that currently the FEMA and FHWA web pages, as is whitehouse.gov (shocker!) silent on this issue at this hour. Sadly, the FHWA page lists at the top news about plans for funding future bridge innovations.
Certain individuals will be paying close attention to the Bush Administration and Congress' response to this unfortunate event. Al Franken as you'd expect has mentioned this on his campaign site and we look forward to his upcoming official response. No doubt some in the federal government will receive unfair criticism. What is fair criticism in this case? What should the federal government be expected to do in the initial response and long-term rebuilding effort, if anything?
At the least it would seem wise for minimally a press release offering solace and support for those that need it?
Let us watch carefully, but be careful in our criticism. Feedback based on facts rather than ideology please.