Obama has canceled his economic town hall here in Cedar Rapids tomorrow, giving deference to the city leaders who need to be paying attention to the record flooding.
The Cedar River is projected to crest at 2 feet over the previous record on Friday, and some residents are being evacuated or asked to prepare to evacuate already.
I can understand both sides of the argument, as described in the article:
State Sen. Rob Hogg said it could have been seen as a show of compassion, had the trip included a visit to flooded areas and a discussion of federal flood and disaster policy.
"I actually think it might be beneficial to talk to him about that," said Hogg, a Cedar Rapids Democrat.
versus
However, Sen. Wally Horn said it would be unwise to insist on a political trip in the middle of a local crisis.
"I'd say it would be better to wait until things settle down," Horn said.
The mayor said that city personal could have taken part in the security for part of the day, but would have had to return their attention to the flooding by afternoon.