Self Deleted

[Laura PourMeADrink]

Last edited Fri Nov 2, 2012, 01:23 PM - Edit history (1)

Turned into a bash-fest - RIP

[quinnox]

1. is he not on it?

I thought he was on top of this.

[Laura PourMeADrink]

4. It surely doesn't sound like someone's on it....if you watch the people pleading on TV. Maybe

it's just too massive and the news seeks out the remainder of the people in need. I know tremendous progress has been made on getting power back...but still............

[barnabas63]

10. It's going to take some time....

There's no way to say - it's going to take time - without sounding insensitive, maybe. It's a massive massive massive problem, and I think they're doing the best they can - and they are bringing some ships in aren't they for helicopters.

[eqfan592]

15. I'd also like to mention that the folks who are in serious trouble right now...

...that we are seeing on the news were all located in a mandatory evacuation zone.

Hopefully they are able to get supplies out to them ASAP, but it's going to take time given the widespread damage.

[vaberella]

35. I've been watching the news 24/7. You make it sound like Katrina.

That is not the case. There are people on the ground. There has been military in NYC since Wednesday. But still what...Things are underwater and we have to restore power in a lot of places. Everything has been deployed to NYC and even our Mayors, Governors, and Senators said as much...

[Democratopia]

112. I saw CNN as I was in line at the bank and it LOOKED like Katrina all over again.

[BlueMan Votes]

196. what's funny is that the people screaming for help are very likely republicans...

from what i've been told about staten island politics, anyway.

i guess that their bootstraps must have all been washed away...?

[RagAss]

199. Yes...heavily racist area.

[crunch60]

229. Keep politics out of this discussion.. Helping people during a terrible disaster is not contingent

on their political affiliation.

[BlueMan Votes]

244. I'm just pointitng out the unbelievable irony of the situation.

plus- they were told to evacuate- they didn't, so screw them. During the storm, None of them were too helpful to the mother who lost her two sons, were they? FUCK THEM.

[RoccoR5955]

248. Staten Island is the teabag capitol of NYC!

They will whine endlessly, unless they get their's FIRST, damnit!
They are the first ones to say that they want the government out of their business, but when something like this happens, they are the first ones to complain. Yes they need help, they just have to wait, like everyone else.

One of the first things that they should send to Staten Island is this:
filled with pacifiers for the little babies who can't wait, because their diaper is full.

[treestar]

247. The TV will present things with a spin

And is obviously going to be determined to find not enough was done. Don't fall for it.

They went out to find dissatisfied people. The number of satisfied people is probably huge - watch the M$M talk to a single one of them.

[Window]

56. I heard Mayor Bloomberg say yesterday that President Obama

had been in touch with him several times and wanted to come to NY. Bloomberg said he wasn't trying to "dis" the President. but felt he had a handle on things and was too busy to go touring.

[quinnox]

168. lol, did he really use the word "dis"?

[Window]

235. Yes, he did. I had to laugh at that myself.

n/t

[Comrade_McKenzie]

2. Micromanagement is the Gov and Mayor's job...

If they aren't properly utilizing the resources provided by the Feds, the blame is on them.

[msongs]

6. more face time by obama is good for confidence and support nt

[Laura PourMeADrink]

8. Pardon my french but I don't give a fuck who's fault it is - people are really

suffering there.

[vaberella]

18. I don't think anyone is saying they're not.

I happen to be a NYC resident. So everyone here knows that people are suffering. There so little the President can do and where the Governor has to come in. Obama has sent in the national guard and the military. It's the Mayor and Governor who have to start delegating who goes where and what is to be done. That's the point and unfortunately for us...Some of the Mayor's aren't coming through here.

[hrmjustin]

26. I agree! Bloomberg needs to get himself out to the outer boroughs.

[vaberella]

41. Yeah...he has been to Staten Island..but I heard there is confusion between all the manpower.

So the Mayor isn't doing everything right or who ever is in charge...like Representatives and Legislators...who might have some power. I know there was confusion between what the FEMA is doing and what our own people are doing and no one is sure what is really going on. But I don't know how the OP relates this to a problem of the President.

[hrmjustin]

100. I think the OP wants things to get done. Just does not work that way.

[Democratopia]

109. Just get the military to get them off the island (if they want) stick them in a hotel.

The President can say that is what we need to do.

[hrmjustin]

182. That is up to local leaders hear. Obama can just keep mentioning in his stump speeches.

[DevonRex]

216. So, you're saying the U.S.

can NOT invade New York and force The Donald to feed the hungry and Bloomberg to cancel the Marathon? Laura PMAD will be shocked and disappointed.

[hrmjustin]

218. Well making the Donald feed the poor is a great idea. n/t

[nolabear]

45. I say this with respect but he cannot perform magic. There's no easy and fast way.

Putting a microphone in front of someone who is stressed, angry, and afraid is far easier for the press to do than cutting the trees so you can get the bulldozer to move the debris so the elecric company can plant a new snapped-off pole so they can string the wire and replace the transformer to get the power to run the pumps to pump the water out of the houses and replace the collapsed drywall and haul away the toxic material so the people can live in their houses again is for the gov't to do. This will take days and weeks, no matter what President Obama does.

President Obama is, I feel certain, staying in touch with FEMA, which is coordinating the national efforts and having him do nothing else will accomplish no more.

People are suffering. And I'm really sorry for that. They're angry because that's one of the stages of grief, and they have much to grieve. But he can't attend each one. I think he'll go back and forth but we'll see. I expect the RWNJs will make what hay they can out of whatever he does.

[Laura PourMeADrink]

134. I agree. I lived in NOLA for three years, I understand, and people who have lost understand that

rebuilding takes time and money...especially when you have to move and pay a rent and your mortgage. But, most of the time, people blame this on the storm itself. What I expect the government to do, is to make sure people have food, water, and a warm place to sleep if they are homeless.

[garthranzz]

222. Right on, who dat!

If the government does its job, most people get it done. There's a procedure for all this, and it takes time. The President can authorize supplies and support, but as you said, the governors and mayors and workers have to implement it all and use the resources.

The problem with Katrina was that the Federal Government - Bush and HeckofaJob - were criminally negligent, before, during and after. That snowballed the problems.

Good post!

[uppityperson]

76. You don't care whose fault it is, but just want Obama to fix everything now? What would you like

him to do?

My first question was in amazement, the second is serious. WHAT would you like him to do, specifically?

[BlueMan Votes]

187. They decided to stay in a MANDATORY Evacuation Area...

they should be at the bottom of the list as far as assistance at this point is concerned.
Resources shouldn't be diverted to cater to the idiots who were told to get out- but by staying were basically saying "Fuck You" to the authorities.

they need to live with their choices.

[crunch60]

231. Bologna! There are many reasons why people don't evacuate when advised. You sound like a hard butt

republican.

[BlueMan Votes]

243. and ALL of those "reasons" are invalid.

they chose to stay- let them live with the consequences of their choices and next time- they just might listen to authorities.

[Charlotte Little]

261. Sorry, but you sound like a bleeding heart liberal...

This storm came with ample warning. Lots of folks who don't evacuate when told it is mandatory do so in defiance. I've seen that on the west coast during wild fires. They stand outside with hoses as the flames approach thinking that they can save their homes. Then, firefighters have to risk their own lives to save those idiots.

When you're told to evacuate, go. And if you don't have means, the authorities WILL help you and get you to a shelter or community center out of the path of harm.

I'm certainly no Republican, but I firmly believe we should charge heavy fines to people who do not evacuate and cost states $$$ for rescue efforts. Not to mention the lives that are on the line when rescue crews have to subject themselves to danger. Maybe there should be jail time for those who can't pay the fees? - this might curtail the rebel-hunker-down-and-ride-it-out bullshit attitudes that exist in this country.

[NCTraveler]

262. I know some people who really ran with....

the compassionate conservative meme in 2004. They feel the exact same way.

[abelenkpe]

9. During a disaster where people lack electricity

and information is difficult to come by it's not unreasonable that the people in that situation don't even know how to utilize those resources.

[elleng]

3. He's given his orders, will learn about Staten Island when he returns 'home' or wherever tonight,

and will kick but as necessary.

edit- cuomo on rachel show, discussing ### times POTUS has been in touch w him and local 'officials.'

[MountainMazza]

5. I saw something on the news tonight....

That they are in the process of loading up all sorts of military stuff and bringing it in. Loading up transports with electrical trucks and hummers and ships etc.

[Laura PourMeADrink]

14. good, but it's been 72 hrs

[rbrnmw]

114. When we had that storm here in Ohio this summer

we had people working day and night but it still took over a week to get electricity it seemed an eternity and it was nothing near the enormity of Hurricane Sandy It is quite frustrating and you feel abandoned My heart goes out to everyone there

[progressivebydesign]

200. give me a break. 72 hours and you want heaven and earth moved just like that???

do you even hear yourself???

[vaberella]

22. Actually military stuff was already sent in this morning.

I was watching the news when the two little boys were found in Staten Island, you can see the military there. They are also in Westchester.

[msrizzo]

7. Geez he's on it.

He set the right policies in place. He's got his people on the job and they are reporting to him. Do you mean that he should be photo opping 24/7? And please, it is not like Katrina. Supplies were in place BEFORE the storm. The National Guard is there. The proper paperwork has been signed. And I'm sure he is constantly being briefed.

[Laura PourMeADrink]

11. Puleeze....don't give me that crap about photo-oping.

[vaberella]

25. You seem to ignore everything the poster said which is 100% valid though. n/t

[alcibiades_mystery]

30. It's pretty clear what Laura wants to see happen on Tuesday

Just sayin'...

[Laura PourMeADrink]

50. What??? I hope you know me well enough to know it's to see Obama reelected

[Melinda]

175. What a complete load of crap. This impugning DUers needs to stop.

It's just her opinion, fer christ sake. Laura's been here a LONG time, she's well established her bona fides, and this shit needs to stop. Seriously, why the need to eat one of our own? Search her posts, keyword Obama, and then come back and cast your asparagus, k?

This shit makes my head hurt.

[Puglover]

255. Absolutely!

I don't agree with the OP but the accusation that was just hurled at him/her is complete and utter bullshit.

[Jennicut]

36. This is all on Bloomberg.

Last edited Thu Nov 1, 2012, 10:12 PM - Edit history (1)

He did not want FEMA money ahead of time. He turned it down after Fulgate called him ahead of the storm. If he had accepted FEMA help ahead of time, some things could have been in place already. Instead, he downplayed the storm on Saturday and then panicked on Sunday. I am glad Bloomberg endorsed Obama but he has not handled this as well as his own Governor has. Or my Governor has (Malloy) or Christie for that matter. Malloy and Christie gave stern, dire warnings to evacuate several days ahead of Sandy. I know, I watched both of them at their press conferences. He denied a request from the Bourough President in Brooklyn for national guard help. He also wants to go through with a marathon on Sunday (!) A marathon while people still need supplies and help. Out of touch.

[LisaL]

42. And if I were Bloomberg, I'd forget the Sunday marathon.

[Laura PourMeADrink]

52. +1000000

[vaberella]

65. Hell no. The marathon brings in 34 Million dollars alone.

We need the money. New York has been devastated in the trillions of dollars. We need to get the investment. At first I would have agreed with you, but I understand the point.

[LisaL]

68. But right now? Less than a week after a major storm?

I am not saying cancel it, but why didn't Bloomberg postpone it by a week or so?

[SickOfTheOnePct]

125. Current estimates for all storm damage is $50 billion

Not trillions.

[vaberella]

133. You're a bit limited in your amount.

Damage is one thing...Daily run of the mill supply and demand was shot down for nearly a week. That goes into the trillion and is added on with the damage. Do you have any inclination how much money all the businesses in New York make and how much people spend.

[SickOfTheOnePct]

161. NYC doesn''t have trillions per year in economic activity

The New York metropolitan area had an estimated gross metropolitan product of $1.28 trillion in 2010

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Economy_of_New_York_City

Say it's up to $1.5 trillion this year...no way they're going to lose "trillions" due to this storm

The impact is bad enough without just making up numbers.

*edited for spelling/grammar

[vaberella]

197. 50 Billion in damages not to mention the economic impact that will go on for roughly 3 weeks.

HELLO!!!

[SickOfTheOnePct]

237. HELLO!!

If they don't do TRILLIONS in economic activity in a YEAR, they can't possibly lose TRILLIONS in 3 weeks.

[Mojorabbit]

225. I read in another thread a report saying 250 billion according to insurers...nt

[hrmjustin]

185. I am sorry but I think they could put it off for the week. Our city needs to put our efforts on

clean-up. I get how you feel though.

[Dorian Gray]

55. The marathon

is angering a lot of New Yorkers right now. Transportation in the city is already fucked up, and that will just make it worse over the weekend. People fear that those in hotels from the hurriacane will be displaced by marathon goers. People also fear that money, police, and other resources will be utilized for the race rather than for the health and well being of those in severely damaged areas.

I get the idea that the show should go on, but postponing a marathon isn't the end of the world when New Yorkers in Staten Island and coastal areas of Queens and Brooklyn and lower manhattan are cold at home, hungry, thirsty, and in need of supplies.

[LisaL]

64. ITA. It's crazy.

When you just had been hit by a frankenstorm, forget the freaking marathon. No one will die if you postpone the marathon.

[vaberella]

71. It's because of that they are pushing the marathon.

The marathon is to bring on funding in NYC. We lost a few trillion if I heard correctly on the news because of the flooding. It's to bring back the money into the economy---hence the reason they are continuing with the race. It's not towards any insensitivity and they are working on the people in Staten Island. Queens, Brooklyn, and Manhattan are slowly coming together---but we already have train service in many lines. And Bus service is in effect.

[LisaL]

78. Presumably it could have been moved to the next Sunday and brought in the same money.

[vaberella]

130. That's true enough.

Again...I think the idea is to bring the sense of normalcy to New Yorkers---that things are getting better and quickly.

[BlueMan Votes]

251. not necessarily.

people come from all over the country, and all around the world to run in it.
people use their vacation time, and airline tickets, hotel rooms have been reserved and paid for, etc...

I think that it's great that they decided to keep it on schedule- it gives people a sense of...normalcy.

[Dorian Gray]

239. I know

I live in Brooklyn. (Thankfully in an area not too affected by the storm.)

But despite all the things you mention, I still see people really angry about the upcoming marathon. More people think it's a slap in the face to the people still suffering than not, it seems.

If they do go on with it, I truly hope that it does bring in much needed money to the city. I just don't know how people are going to get around, really.

[hrmjustin]

186. Yes This is pissing people off here in NY

[onenote]

62. Actually, it sounds like you want more photo-oping

The president doesn't have to be in NY directing relief efforts. He needs to stay on top of the situation which is able to do from anywhere. He's got very sophisticated communications technology with him at all times.

[Laura PourMeADrink]

89. No, I do not. Just want something bigger than the states can provide to help these people

[Spazito]

113. The "something bigger" is already there, it's called FEMA...

They were there before the storm hit and they are still there. The National Guard is there. All assets, including an aircraft carrier, are there.

Stop watching CNN, it is no better than Fox, imo.

[progressivebydesign]

202. Oh like FEMA??? sheesh. nt

[Cha]

146. Puleeze...we're not talking about Photo OPs. This thread is full of what's

being done. You seem to be panicking about Pres Obama for nothing. i trust that he wouldn't leave the Sandy Crisis if he thought he could do some more on the scene. That's the President I'm voting to re-elect.

[barnabas63]

12. +1

[elleng]

48. Right, and he's spoken w cuomo and other officials several times today.

[sheshe2]

223. Hi elleng

Good to see you....as an east coaster. how did you make out with the storm. you were safe?

[elleng]

224. Hi, she. Fine, thanks.

Messy, so didn't leave the house. Power remained on (much to my surprise, as PEPCO is notorious for bad service.) And had been to grocery twice, so no problems there.

Daughter in NJ (near Philly, not the shore,) was concerned about wind and her high-rise rattling windows, but fortunately no damage.

[sheshe2]

228. Lost mine for 8 hours

However can't complain others were hit far worse!
We just pull together in all of this! Glad your family is okay!
I have to thank you for the support you gave me on that last thread about Sandy. Really. Thank You! Nice to know you have a friend here.
I take it you are from VA.....for Wayne Powell....I am MA for Elizabeth Warren....however I still want Eric to go down in flames!
Good luck to all of us on tuesday!

[elleng]

234. So you're in MA and lost power?

I'm actually in MD, near DC, but close to VA, 1-2 hours from 'cantor's' district so able to visit and meet Wayne Powell twice. Even if I hadn't met him, I'd be supporting him. MUST get rid of the obstructionists, and cantor is #1, imo.

You're welcome about 'support.' Lots of friends around here (and lots of noise, too!)

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

13. He can't micromanage the recovery. I'm sure he's "on it"

from wherever he is, but at this point his job is to monitor and be sure the federal assets are available. He's already told the governors to call him directly if federal agencies aren't responding quickly enough. Beyond that I'm not sure what else he can do. And if he spends too much time hanging around the areas where the damage occurred, he will only disrupt relief efforts with security requirements, and will be accused of milking the disaster for politically-motivated photo-ops.

[Laura PourMeADrink]

39. He doesn't have to go there...but he can call in navy/coast guard to bring in supplies.

If you saw those people in Staten Island. I know there are sovereignty issues.....but wtf

These governors may not know what to do....sure, they can call him, but why not be proactive, and with all the millions of experts in DC, call them and recommend something.

I am not a rescue/relief expert...but surely there are people who are that can assist in coming up with a plan to help

[elleng]

51. he has, they have. cuomo discussing on rachel.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

60. There is a thing called NIMS: National Incident Management System.

It's what FEMA uses to delegate various functions to federal, state and local agencies. NIMS puts a structure in place to adapt to whatever emergency comes up. Just because we don't see what's being done doesn't mean nothing is being done; chances are the Navy and Coast Guard have already been called in to help, but anything involving ships takes time. They don't move very fast.

Information about NIMS here: http://www.fema.gov/national-incident-management-system

[nolabear]

70. I don't understand what you think is happening.

I don't think anyone is going to die of thirst. I don't know of anyone who will starve, or who has no access to shelter. I hear a LOT of fear and anger from people who have lost everything and that's understandable. It can't be fixed quickly. They are suffering. But I can't figure out what you think should be happening.

The magnitude of this can't be fathomed but I wonder what you think they can do that they're not, or what Obama could do that he's not.

(I'm not a fan of that marathon going on, but I guess it will)

[Divine Discontent]

230. spot on post +1 not sure what else the OP is expecting, as the pres being around there now would

just cause security mess issues, and slow things down. there's millions of dollars flowing to care for people. I am sure there's some people out of millions who aren't being helped yet, but they will be shortly, it's just they're in the worst zones that were supposed to evacuate, not that they're bad for not following that at all imho, but, they certainly, in staying, had to have stocked up on 3-5 days worth of food and water in deciding to ignore an evacuation order. they are getting help as a mass number, but the few that haven't are probably getting help or will in the morning. We'll see if these people are on the TV again.

[uppityperson]

80. He has. They have. What else do you want him to do? You are not a rescue/relief expert but he has

people working for him that are. And they are coming up with plans to help, like sending in supplies.

[MineralMan]

257. Why do you assume he has not already done those things?

The governors also know what to do, and have extensive emergency plans and staff who have contingency plans for all sorts of things.

President Obama's role is really pretty limited to providing federal assistance when requested. He is doing that. Even there, he relies on professionals on his staff, in FEMA, and in other areas to implement such things. He has done that, is doing that, and will continue to do whatever is needed. I think you have a limited viewpoint on how things are done and what has already been done and is ongoing.

[Politicub]

16. He hasn't been "off" of Sandy

[Condem]

17. Doesn't he have to be re-elected to see the recovery through...

Just sayin'...

[madinmaryland]

139. Yeah.. If Rmoney gets elected, Enron, Exxon, or Halliburton will be taking care

of the recovery.

[scheming daemons]

19. he IS on it. he can walk and chew gum at the same time

[Cha]

155. Thank you, s d. Those things called cells. nm

[hrmjustin]

20. It would not be helpful for him to go to SI.

He needs to much security, and we need our cops where they are. The people of SI are more pissed at the mayor, and with good reason. He has forgotten them. Help is getting in to slowly. SI are gopers and they don't like him so they might use it as a moment to embarrass him. Bloomberg needs to get his ass over to SI and do something for these people.The horror stories from my friends there are horrifying. These people put bloomberg in office 3 times yet he ignores them. Obama does not need to be there anymore. Our politicians in this state need to stop praising one another and get aid moving to SI, Rockaways, and Coney Island. It is not all about Manhattan. I am just so pissed off.

[Laura PourMeADrink]

44. not suggesting O needs to go there....just start some show of force (rescue)...and I heard people

talk of looting. Just like NOLA. Send the army there. do something.

[hrmjustin]

96. Something does need to be done. Looting is a problem.

God help us all!

[Sekhmets Daughter]

188. Christ on a bicycle, get a grip already.

There has been looting since the rain stopped, on Long Island, in Coney Island...it's what people do when they are desperate or have the opportunity. The National Guard and the Red Cross arrived on Staten Island on Tuesday...water everywhere, power lines down...tell me, how many dead Guardsmen and Red Cross workers would satisfy you? I know it's an awful situation, as someone else posted, that's why it is called a disaster. But the people are going to have to be patient....there is only so much that can be done in a few short days. The media is playing this all wrong and adding fuel to an already sad situation.

[progressivebydesign]

203. they didn't evacuate, so I'm not quite sure why THEY would be pissed. nt

[hrmjustin]

221. How are 375000 residence of the city of NY supposed to get up and haul ass in 18 hours which is what

they had. Many of these shelters flooded. In SI many of the victims were not in storm zone A. People who were told that it was safe to stay lost their homes. Bloomberg has not done anything for them until today because he was embarrassed into doing something. Many people you see on TV did evacuate and they are returning to their homes because they have no place to go. the shelters are not prepared for large amounts of people, because the city did not take this serious enough.

[tman]

21. Obama would've been wise

to cease all campaigning through tuesday, depriving Romney of all oxygen and appearing to stay on top of it.

Any negative comment from Romney on Obama in the mist of managing a national crisis would've appeared petty and cheap.

[cthulu2016]

24. I agree.

[vaberella]

32. I don't see that to a problem.

I think the idea of him still campaigning is to bring a sense of normalcy and as a New Yorker--my Mayor has come through as far as NYC---Staten Island being the most problematic but with people there. Westchester is another jurisdiction so I don't know what's going up there. Although that Mayor was on the news today. Oh right...Westchester mayor is in the process of requesting emergency funds but did not do so yet.

[Cha]

159. I disagree.. I think President Obama is doing exactly

what he needs to be doing. mitt's made plenty of petty and cheap comments already..and freaking lying his damn head off.

PBO is staying on top of the Storm Crisis.

[progressivebydesign]

204. bullshit. He has done extraordinary things. nt

[liberalmuse]

23. Oh for Pete's sake.

He is on it. I'm so tired of wimpy liberals freaking out over every little thing. That is why we can't get ahead. Lots of conviction, but no spine. I'm tired of liberals giving a shit what asshat republicans or idiots (same thing, basically) think or say. Their bullshit needs to be cut down. We know we are right. Why don't we fucking act like it? Our President is on this, and doesn't have to put on a show for the people who would criticize him even if he were Jesus Christ himself. So don't sweat it, and don't let those fuckers make you worry. They aren't worth it, so why do we act as if they are?

[scheming daemons]

28. this OP always does this.

[Laura PourMeADrink]

57. You are officially on my shitlist sd

[Condem]

58. I bet he loses sleep on that!!!

[Laura PourMeADrink]

72. you been here for years, supporting each other's ideas, civilly, and then someone you think

is a fellow, supporting DUer, smacks you down in a condescending way, sucks

[scheming daemons]

77. I meant you always panic and blows things out of proportion

Which..
. You have to admit....


Is true.

[Laura PourMeADrink]

84. How condescending ! Thanks SD

[quinnox]

90. lol

[dionysus]

158. but it's true. nt

[ProfessorGAC]

253. Condescending? Yes

Inaccurate? No. Your OP does have a lot in common with right wing blogs. I know you're not one of them. i've been reading your posts here for a long time. So, either you're one of us or the most persistent mole ever.

But, the OP has a lot of negativity which presumes that not enough is being done by the president himself. The entire thread is full of evidence that such presumption is wrong.

You went off half-baked and now you're angry that you've been called on it.

Just admit you went a little crazy and it would end the whole thing.
GAC

[Condem]

82. As I recall, Mr. Bloomberg turned Obama down coming to New York....

...and 72 hours after a disaster of this magnitude isn't shit. What the fuck do you want? It took Jesus Christ 3 days to rise from the dead!!

[LisaL]

92. He sure did. Bloomberg didn't even want Obama to go to NYC.

[hrmjustin]

190. Bloomberg sucks. I never voted for him. He is ignoring the rest of the city. Manhattan is his game.

[madinmaryland]

148. Slow down there Laura and take a deep breath. Are you on Staten Island???

You seem to have an odd angle on this.

[jeff47]

74. Can I be on it too?

Alternatively, you could stop panicking and realize it's not the President's job to personally deliver relief supplies to every affected household.

That would be a massively inappropriate photo op.

Obama's given orders. It will take time for them to be carried out. And as noted elsewhere in this thread, the people complaining have a political motive to do so.

[Democratopia]

117. Don't you start with that nonsense.

[fugop]

120. + a gazillion. And then a bazillion more.

[alcibiades_mystery]

27. All my people in Queens are getting their power back today...gas crisis is the issue

And the trucks seem to be filling the stations at a decent clip.

That said, I've had about enough of your negative, anti-Obama posts, so I think you're going to join your cohort on ignore until the election is over. Ta-ta.

[timber84]

33. you mean

K#n%$%k?

[Laura PourMeADrink]

172. wow. I am so upset. NOT

[progressivebydesign]

208. Agree with you 1,000% I always forget I have that ignore button.

this thread is making me too angry.

[Curtland1015]

29. Do we have any evidence that he's let up?

Or that he's lacked in doing anything yet?

I agree that he should keep working to help people there, but you phrased your OP in such a way to make it seem that he had already moved on. Then when others called you out on it, you've given them shit about it.

I'm sure we ALL AGREE that Obama shouldn't leave NY/NJ in a lurch, but as far as any of us can tell, that hasn't happened, and snapping at people certainly isn't helping.

It's a scary and frustrating situation. I understand the anxiousness.

[vaberella]

46. Obama has been on top of the people in NYC.

All our political officials have said so over and over and over again. To the point that Bloomberg endorsed him. And Bloomberg had stated he would stay out of the politics of the election this time around.

[Bjorn Against]

31. FEMA is carrying out Obama's instructions

The President provides leadership in a disaster but FEMA does most of the work, Obama can continue to remain in close contact with FEMA officials while he is campaigning. I think it is perfectly fine for him to step away from the disaster scene for a bit as long as FEMA and other federal agencies are on the job carrying out his orders.

[Sekhmets Daughter]

34. ABC News had something as well....but

The National Guard and the Red Cross arrived late Tuesday and have been distributing food, water and gasoline since. It sounds like a bit of Borough President grandstanding. Don't get me wrong, I'm not saying they are not hurting but you have to wonder just what these people expect...for the needed items to drop from heaven like manna? Also, Staten Island is a conservative bastion in an otherwise very liberal city so anything to make Obama and Bloomberg look bad will work for them.

[msrizzo]

43. They are frustrated.

Cuomo is on MSNBC now talking about how Obama has called him multiple times per day. It would be great if things could be restored back to normal in a couple of days but that's just impossible.

[Sekhmets Daughter]

85. Of course they are frustrated...

Bloomberg should have asked Obama to visit Staten Island, instead of asking him not to come to the city. So they feel neglected as well...New Yorkers understand the squeaky wheel syndrome as well as anyone.

[madinmaryland]

153. The logistics of getting the POTUS onto Staten Island are almost as bad as trying to get

him into Manhattan.

[Sekhmets Daughter]

181. Marine 1 from NJ?

[madinmaryland]

193. Not likely. It could happen, but unfortunately, post 9-11 it is not likely to happen.

Staten Island is actually really hard to get to, and it is not easy to get off of. Traffic sucks. There is no subway to SI, just the SI Ferry, two bridges, and buses.

[Sekhmets Daughter]

242. When I was a kid

growing up in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn we used to ride the SI Ferry on Sunday afternoons...it was so much fun and one of our favorite things to do.

[madinmaryland]

264. When I worked in the city, I took the SI Ferry a few times out to SI to see friends.

Nice ride. Actually any of the ferry's from Manhattan out to the boroughs and NJ are nice rides.

[Sekhmets Daughter]

265. Yep...but you could ride the SI for a nickle and the others were more expensive....

My mother had three children to pay for and we always had an hot dog and soda on the trip...so it was our most frequent choice.

[SingleSeatBiggerMeat]

37. Give Me A Fucking Break

He has poured everything the Federal Government can provide to such a catastrophe....FEMA, the Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, the National Guard, DOT, and a ton of other stuff.

If Christie, Cuomo, and Bloomberg aren't screaming - you shouldn't either.

[msrizzo]

38. Here's a story about Staten Island

The residents are mad at their own local authorities. They are upset that resources are being diverted to facilitate the start of the marathon on Sunday. They are not criticizing the feds at this point. I have no idea what they said on CNN.

http://www.nydailynews.com/new-york/staten-island-residents-plead-article-1.1195599

[nobodyspecial]

49. I guess Obama should cancel the NYC marathon

[LisaL]

59. It's not up to him.

Bloomberg is the one who should be cancelling marathons.

[nobodyspecial]

103. I know. I was being facetious.

[hrmjustin]

192. Staten Islanders are rabid republicans. The northern democratic part is not flooded to bad.

[a la izquierda]

252. I'm sorry, but at this point, I don't care about their politics.

My family lives on SI.

[LisaL]

40. What do you expect him to do?

They have a mayor and a governor.
He had given orders to FEMA. Do you want him to personally deliver canned goods or something?

[Laura PourMeADrink]

69. total snark totally uncalled for. Never said he should even go there. But, someone's got

to lead

[uppityperson]

83. "someone's got to lead"? You mean like by getting FEMA on the case, by having his people get supplie

supplies and delivery of them started?

[JB126]

47. He is still on it

Cuomo is on Rachel's show now saying he just got off the phone with the Prez.

[GoCubsGo]

53. Yep.

He said the President has been calling him several times a day to get updates.

[vaberella]

54. You're way out of control in your OP. As a New York resident---I'm embarassed.

There is no doubt that Staten Island was hit hard but so was Coney Island, Far Rockaway, and Westchester. If there is slow response it is not because of the President as you imply in your post. It is entirely due to the local authorities who should be delegating this. And as for the upper authorities--like Mayor, Governor, Senators and so on--they have all hailed Obama's decisiveness, interest, and support. You are implying otherwise.

As a final note...this is nothing in the realm of Katrina and it's insulting to suggest that.

[Laura PourMeADrink]

67. You are embarassed of me? Puleeze. All you had to do was watch the news...like zillions of other

people to see people pleading, begging for help in SI, Tom's River, and Hoboken, to name a few.
It's exactly like the people begging for help in Katrina.

You insulted by a comparison to Katrina? wow.

[vaberella]

136. Watch the news? What do you think I do? I don't only watch the news.

I have lived through this and I also have friends and family in every bloody borough. The thing is this is not Katrina, it is very far from Katrina and you making it seem as though our people were not prepared or prepared to the best of their ability. I find that our Mayor, Governor and officials were on top of this and warning New Yorkers for days in advance. This is what disgusts me about your post. I find that they sincerely cared about us and worked their damnedest.

[progressivebydesign]

207. This is the worst fucking thread I've read here. Calm yourself...

Seriously.... this is not katrina. Not even close.

I feel like I'm on a fox news site. You will be very happy tomorrow when the media turns this into katrina for you. I guess the State governors of New York, Virginia, and New Jersey, don't know as much as you.

[DevonRex]

220. She Fucking.Lives.In.New.York.City. How dare you. Nt

[Democratopia]

93. It doesn't matter whose fault it is, Obama will be crucified by Republicans

and GOP media if there are people begging for help.

[vaberella]

138. Funny...because Chris Christie and Bloomberg have been giving him much LOVE!!

So I don't know what you're talking about. Nice of you to jump on the bandwagon of stupidity.

[Faith9326]

63. He just said during his speech

That he just got off the phone with some state officials(before the speech).

[GeorgeGist]

66. I think you've had enough ...

sober up for your trip to the Caymans.

[Laura PourMeADrink]

142. Wow, that's a very intelligent response to a national crisis. Sounds like you are the one

who has had too many

[aaaaaa5a]

73. I actually would not have had a problem with him staying on Sandy up to election day.

I don't think it would have hurt him at all.


I'm not sure why he is campaigning. But I don't distrust Ploufe and Axelrod.

[Laura PourMeADrink]

79. omg...thank you so much for understanding.

[CakeGrrl]

99. He's campaigning because Team Romney lies like a rug, largely unchecked by the MSM.

As people have said upthread, he can multitask. The local leaders have confirmed that he's been in touch to make sure they're getting what they need.

Why does he have to be walking up and down the street in front of cameras for people to believe he's actually getting something done?

[Cha]

173. Good Points, CakeGrrl! PBO's is an awesome multitasker AND

mittLies is Lying his damn head without being called on it my corpmediaWhores.

I Know the Pres Obama is doing an amazing job without having to see him in NYC, ETC.. Bless his heart..he's working so hard for all of us right now.

[Cha]

167. I do trust Axelrod and Plouffe and I trust the President.. they kniow

what they're doing. The President in touch with all the mayors and Govs about Sandy and out in the other parts of our country, Rallying.

[aaaaaa5a]

169. I trust Axelrod and Plouffe too! nt

[Cha]

174. OMGOSH! I thought you wrote you didn't trust them..

You said you didn't "Distrust" them! Sorry

[aaaaaa5a]

180. No problem! We are on the same team!

[Cha]

194. That's what I thought!

It seemed surreal!

[WinkyDink]

75. I'm pretty sure the gratitude shown by various governors and mayors is all the evidence needed.

[Democratopia]

81. My thoughts exactly.

He needs to get his people to make some phone calls, find out exactly what is happening, then he needs to make calls and get his butt down there tomorrow to meet the people and state what is happening.

If not, he will be crucified.

[LisaL]

97. Bloomberg didn't want Obama to visit NYC.

[Democratopia]

128. He also endorsed Obama! Obama is President, he can go where he likes. Bloomberg

was saying he didn't have time to take Obama on a guided tour.

[progressivebydesign]

206. Are you talking about the PRESIDENT???

WTF? He is getting phone calls all the time, his team is working this disaster 24/7. The Governor's in the afected areas are PRAISING his outstanding work and availability. Seriously you guys need to calm the fuck down.

[BklnDem75]

245. Is there a reason you think Obama's presence is needed?

He's doing his job. Transit is up to 70%, bridges and tunnels are open. Power should be back up in the coming days. A photo op won't help us. Please stop this crap.

[doc03]

86. Faux and CNN will do their best to find one disgruntled person

to put on TV and Faux especially will try and make Obama look bad. If he stays in Washington to handle Sandy they will say it is all over politics. If he campaigns they will try to make it another Katrina it's really a no win situation. Meanwhile Romney doesn't release his tax returns and tells outright lies and gets away with it. I hate the fucking media whores.

[Democratopia]

131. Then he goes everyday to meet victims and gives the media an update. He needs to control the

narrative of what he is doing, not Fox News, not Karl Rove.

[durablend]

250. Then they'll whine he's doing classless photo-ops

Some of you just don't get it.

[Le Taz Hot]

87. I don't understand your post.

Most people know I'm not an enthusiastic Obama supporter (I'm WAY left of the President) but I think President Obama couldn't have handled this any better. He got resources in there, ready to go, BEFORE the storm hit. FEMA asked for help from other states early and they've already arrived with rescue crews and equipment. This is a HUGE disaster and millions are in need. The fact is that not everyone can be serviced immediately. Frankly, the difference in disaster preparedness between Sandy and Katrina are night and day. One was a lesson in how NOT to do it and one is a lesson in how it's done right.

And quit watching CNN! These assholes have an agenda and it ain't presenting news -- it's being Faux Lite at which they are failing miserably (look at their ratings if you don't believe me).

[Democratopia]

101. Obama is up against a very aggressive and dishonest right-wing media and candidate.

He needs to be seen every day meeting the people and giving an update of progress.

[Le Taz Hot]

111. Again, I don't understand.

I'm in California and that is exactly what I'm seeing 3,000 miles away. And I don't even have a TV service -- I'm relying solely on online information. The information I've seen has the President in constant contact with governors and other elected officials, ensuring states and cities have the federal resources they need and in the timeliest manner humanely possible. Are you talking photo ops here because if you are, we're in completely different mindsets.

[Democratopia]

118. I saw 5 mins of CNN and they made it LOOK like another Katrina. That is the problem.

[Laura PourMeADrink]

121. exactly. It was exactly the same. people begging for help

[sheshe2]

88. Obama put the feet on the ground early to prepare for a huge disaster

He was criticized by...of all people Brownie head of FEMA during Katrina. He said Obama acted to EARLY! Really? From the man who stood there and watched people drown!

I am from Ma. We were hit too. However no where near how NY and NJ were. I only suffered a 9 hour black out.

I didn't fault the utility company's at all for there response. They were prepared. Even though there are still 2000k without power in JUST my town alone, Governor Patrick sent needed utility workers to NY and NJ! Other states have sent assistance too.

Do not criticize Obama's response to this crisis! It was more devastating than anyone predicted! If it is true as another poster said...that they had been told to evacuate and did not then that is why aid is being hampered. I wish them relief as soon as possible!

[Laura PourMeADrink]

95. no where did I criticize Obama.

[sheshe2]

107. okay

We are in this together!

[Liberal_Stalwart71]

91. Tired of people thinking they know what Obama should and should not do. Our president knows EXACTLY

what he's doing! CHILL!!!

[Laura PourMeADrink]

98. don't really care what you are tired of hearing

[Liberal_Stalwart71]

102. Then why reply? Trashing this thread. The president KNOWS what he's doing!! You're not the president

And you don't know what he's doing. Until you're sworn in, what the president SHOULD do is NOT up to you!!

[quinnox]

106. + a million

I'm tired of hearing the obedient sheep types!

[Democratopia]

105. This is about avoiding the hurricane force that is the Republican spin machine.

Nobody here is criticizing Obama,

[libdem4life]

94. Early on...maybe it was the first interview...Christie thanked the President for getting IN FRONT

of FEMA and fast-tracking the initial funding/assistance/approvals to get them help asap. I'm proud of our President...and the folks at the state level...and we all pray for each and every person in Sandy's way.

[amborin]

104. agree: Lawrence is covering Staten Island right now:

lower income folks are really hurting and furious

reminds me of Los Angeles County:

last year, we lost power for a week. really awful...but....lower income neighborhoods went without power for almost one month....

[elleng]

108. Napolitano going to Staten Island tomorrow.

(Lawrence show.)

[Laura PourMeADrink]

123. thanks for posting that EG Obviously someone somewhere realized it was a very dire

concern.

[elleng]

140. You're welcome, Laura.

I suspect it was POTUS, after hearing from cuomo and others on the scene, along with MSNBC coverage.

[Jennicut]

110. Janet Napolitano is going there tomorrow per Lawrence O'Donnell.

Bloomberg better get his stuff together. Those people on Staten Island are hurting bad.

[Laura PourMeADrink]

149. thanks J

[Jennicut]

160. I am a bit angry with Bloomberg, but not President Obama.

Please understand that Bloomberg turned down help that FEMA was willing to give days before the storm hit.
Per Daily Kos on the 27th:

"President Obama directed FEMA Director Craig Fugate to call Mayor Bloomberg earlier in the day to offer assistance. Governor Cuomo had asked for FEMA aid. Bloomberg said thanks, but no thanks. He said we had what we needed." http://www.dailykos.com/story/2012/10/27/1151343/-Bloomberg-Turns-Down-Offer-of-FEMA-Assistance-for-NYC

Some things could have been in place, ahead of time. And this is ultimately all up to Mayor Bloomberg.. The President can offer things but like in New Orleans and LA, unless a mayor or Gov assign over the duties to FEMA, it cannot take over. It can provide assistance. This is sad that Chris Christie of all people is more on top of his people's needs then Bloomberg is. Guy is out of touch just a bit. Marathons and not ordering evacs until Sunday. Malloy was out there telling people to get out days before. Sent the national guard of CT in when people needed to be rescued on the CT shoreline.

I get fired up because I live in CT and see things are being run better right across Long Island Sound. NYC has more damage then we do. Cities vs small shoreline towns. But we do seem to have it together just a bit more.

[Tree-Hugger]

115. What do you want him to do, specifically?

It's been made clear several times that Obama is not WANTED in New York or it's boroughs because they are unable to handle his security and his motorcade, et al.

What is your evidence that he is not doing enough? Do you have some insight into how he is handling phone calls or his dealings with FEMA?

You say you don't necessarily need to see him there, you say you are not criticizing him, you say he isn't doing enough. What exactly do you need him to do in order to gain your satisfaction?

Sandy was a big storm and she caused a ton of devastation. There are people suffering in quite a few states. Obama cannot be everywhere at once. He cannot wave his magic Hope and Change Wand and make everything instantly better. He is doing a lot to help and get the ball rolling with FEMA and other aid. He has been aggressive with this.

Shall he hold a canned food drive?

Keep in mind, I have a ton of family in Staten Island. That place has been in my heart for my entire life and I have been seeing images of houses, street, stores and families I know in devastation. I am sick to my stomach to see all of this, but I am not mad at the President and I think he is doing an exceptional job.

[JuveDem]

116. So with Janet going there tomorrow

I hope she comes with the full support of the govt.
Kind of odd that the Mayor of Staten Island is MIA.

[Jennicut]

141. There is no Mayor of just Staten Island.

Staten Island is part of NYC and Bloomberg is the mayor of NYC. There are five boroughs of NYC. Brooklyn, Queens, Manhattan, The Bronx, and Staten Island. There are borough Presidents in charge.
I live in Connecticut and have been to the Bronx many times for Yankee Games at the old stadium but never went into Manhattan, which many think of as NYC. Been to the Bronx Zoo too.
Some people on Staten Island think the mayor only has focus on Manhatten and not working class Staten Island.

[SickOfTheOnePct]

119. I'm not sure what else he could do

For him to be there makes it appear that he can't trust the people he has put in charge of cleaning up the mess.

[Democratopia]

124. He can't be there too much. We are days out from an election!

[SickOfTheOnePct]

127. So he should park himself in NYC until next Tuesday? n/t

[LisaL]

132. Again, Bloomberg didn't want him to visit NYC.

[SickOfTheOnePct]

137. Understood

And I don't see a problem with that. I do see a problem with the notion that the President needs to park himself in NYC until Tuesday because someone might think he doesn't care.

[Spazito]

151. Wow, your posts are.....interesting n/t

[Democratopia]

122. I agree entirely with the OP. This is about making sure the Republicans and their propoganda

don't get the chance to make capital out of something Obama is not responsible for.

However, there are quick solutions, for example, get the military to get them off the island (if they want) and stick them in a hotel.

[Laura PourMeADrink]

129. yes, D. It is first and foremost about these poor people. And, you are absolutely right -

secondly, the rw propaganda will exploit this to the hilt. We spend a zillion zillion bucks on military - except for the unlucky ones in Afghanistan and Iraq, most have nothing too important to do. If we can't get coast guard or navy ships in there with water, rations, diapers, whatever, wtf are we paying for?

[TwilightGardener]

227. "Most (military) have nothing too important to do"--

that is one of the most ignorant things I've ever read. You clearly have no idea how the military and DoD works, or what they do everyday. They do their JOBS--it's not fucking Gomer Pyle and Beetle Bailey shining boots and playing cards. Jobs like manning NORAD, or processing pay, or treating ill servicemembers, or monitoring DoD computer network security. One of the stupidest things I've read on DU, in fact.

[blazeKing]

126. People aren't starving

Let's get that out of the way first.

I do NOT include children or the elderly in this but..

An average non anorexic human can live a month or more without food. These people are not starving. It's an insult to people actually starving around the world.

[Democratopia]

135. “We’re going to die! We’re going to freeze!" - This is what voters are seeing and reading

“We’re going to die! We’re going to freeze! We got 90-year-old people!” Donna Solli told visiting officials. “You don’t understand. You gotta get your trucks down here on the corner now. It’s been three days!”

[vaberella]

147. And I see a woman in panic mode. And probably suffering from shock.

She needs medical attention. Because majority of people that I have been listening too on television have not said that. They have been put in shelters, homes, and given supplies.

[Democratopia]

157. Three days on and you say she needs medical attention. Where is it? Not my question, but that is

the question you can expect from Romney.

[Democratopia]

143. “This is America, not a third world nation. We need food." - what voters are seeing and reading

“This is America, not a third world nation. We need food, we need clothing,” Staten Island Borough President Jim Molinaro said today. “My advice to the people of Staten Island is: Don’t donate the American Red Cross. Put their money elsewhere.”

[haele]

191. WTF?"...Staten Islanders...Don't donate to the American Red Cross; put their money elsewhere?"

What sort of Randriod is this fool? And he's their borough president?
The Red Cross buys food and sundries (diapers, toothpaste, soap, razors, and towels)not only for the people in shelters, but needy people still in their houses. Those donations also pay for needed medical supplies, provides vouchers for replacement clothing and housing, and other personal little necessities survivors and refugees need for their comfort. All this plus the emergency rescue activity, doctors, nurses, mental health specialists, lawyers, paramedics...

I suppose he's a tea-bagging GOPer who thinks WalMart and those million dollar contractors he sees on the TV are even halfway interested in providing a tenth of what the Red Cross provides in a disaster like this? And that somehow, miraculously, they will do it instantly at his bidding?

He may have a pissing contest with the mayor, but leave the Red Cross, FEMA, and the national guard who have been busting their butts to get there and bring things back to safety...

Haele

[FrenchieCat]

144. It's called a disaster for a reason......

It's not a convenient situation that can be remedied with the wave of a wand.

If folks are expecting to go back to life as it was before the storm hit in 3 days, that's not going to happen.
If folks believe that they will only suffer a tiny bit before things get back to normal, they are in for a rude awakening.

But don't you worry....Fox News and the other corporate media will be on your rift like white on rice ASAP!
and it will all be Obama, the Magic Negro's, fault, for not having performed a miracle not in 7 days, but in 3 days!

I'm amazed at the naivete of those who would expect for everything to be peachy keen by now. Reminds me of when
Pres. Obama was expected to dive down into the Gulf and plug up the oil leak miles under the sea.

[Democratopia]

150. You miss the point entirely. Those headlines you suggest are what I want to avoid.

I have suggested simple ways to do that.

[FrenchieCat]

162. The media will always be able to find someone not happy and complaining......

who they can stick a mike into their faces.....
because things cannot and won't be perfect.

Did you see the devastation? Did you really think that everyone would be super happy
right about now?

How old are we?

I have 2 emergency kits at my house, just in case......
because I know that if a disaster strikes, that I will be inconvenienced,
and that no one will be taking me to a hotel or such.

These are going to be hard times for many, no matter what happens.
I feel badly for them, but I'm not about to panic and try to make someone responsible
for this act of nature......and the fact that it can't just be undone.

If the media wants it to be a Katrina, they will find a way to get that done.
That's what they do. That's why they don't call out that Lying Romney.
That's why they allowed us to be lied into a war. That's why George Bush had 80%+
rating for 18 months after 9/11 happened, because that's what the media wanted then.

I suggest if you haven't already, that you donate to the Red Cross,
and do your part. In the end a disaster means just that. It ain't pretty,
and it ain't gonna be easy, even if Barack Obama did everything just perfectly......

[CreekDog]

145. would you trade Obama's reelection so he can spend more time up there?

you said "this is bigger than the election".

wel'll let's see, is it?

[Democratopia]

154. The two aren't mutually exclusive. He's got 78% Sandy approval. I want it to stay at least that high

Because he will be ripped to shreds by the mean and dishonest campaigning from the right, if there is one thing they can say he should have done that he didn't.

[TwilightGardener]

215. Who gives a shit, dude? He'll never be

free of RW criticism--they'll pound him for his choice of sock color. He doesn't dance to their tune. If he loses, he loses. Shit.

[EC]

152. FEMA is there

It's being taken care of. Janet Napolitano will be there tomorrow also. Maybe you better have Laura pour you two and seattle down. I was waiting for film like that to show up. I'm surprised it took CNN or FOX so long.

[Spazito]

156. It is interesting that Drudge started on this....

and, damn, it shows up here shortly after. CNN and Drudge, quite a pair.

[Democratopia]

163. Have you not seen Romney BLAME Obama for losing jobs in the auto industry?

Have you not seen Romney BLAME Obama for stealing from Medicare to prop up Obamacare?

These are the lies that we have been seeing day after day.

It is quite reasonable to think that if there is an opportunity Romney will exploit Sandy to his advantage. If somebody dies in Staten Island, between now and election day for whatever reason, they will probably say that is Obama's fault for doing a quick photo-op and then going back to campaigning.

Nothing is beyond Team Romney.

[Spazito]

171. The rabid right wing will exploit anything...

and EVERYTHING is always President Obama's fault. For DUers to get sucked into repeating their garbage is ridiculous, imo.

[FrenchieCat]

165. Yep......

It's sad really....because what is being done is the exploitation of the suffering that will happen in a disaster zone 3 days out
and they are doing it for political gain, as always. And of course, you've got some folks here panicking cause they don't want to understand
that no matter what Obama does, folks are still not gonna be comfortable due to this natural disaster, and be unhappy and scream about it on our Television. Reminds me of the Teabaggers.....how the media grew their numbers by showing them on television day in day out for weeks on in! The corporate media sucks, and they all have been waiting for way to help Romney.

[Laura PourMeADrink]

170. Trust me FC, I am 100% aware of the difference between comfort and true and urgent needs.

[Spazito]

179. Yes, the media, CNN and Fox in particular, are not interested in the people...

they are exploiting, they have a specific agenda and it is unfortunate, to say the least, when DUers buy into their garbage.

[DevonRex]

205. Yeah and DUers more than willing to parrot it them. Nt

[Divine Discontent]

232. yes, you HAVE to admit, it's sickening when you hear it on CNN or Drudge and voila, it appears on DU

shortly after. The point being, many people who are big DEM backers, and want the pres to win, still get too worried about this stuff and post what the right wing is insinuating here. The facts are that the pres put FEMA in motion immediately, and there's only so many thousands of workers to go help hundreds of thousands of people, and it'll take a few days, but surely these people who stuck around knowing they were told to leave bought $50 worth of water and crackers and tuna snack packs, chips, candy, etc knowing they might be in a world of hurt by staying in a mandatory evac zone. As I said elsewhere, not saying they're bad people for not leaving, just saying they should have some supplies if they were wanting to tough it out. Otherwise they will be helped soon, or already have been.

[aquart]

164. Have you been asleep? For days?

Obama has been here and he has spoken directly with all the leaders.

Golly, why do you suppose Bloomberg endorsed him CITING his Sandy response?

The executive decisions have been made. Now the help pours in according to the specific requests of governors and mayors.

Government is working as it should.

Or do think Obama should hand out cans of food like Romney?

[Laura PourMeADrink]

166. I will ignore the rudness. No I haven't been sleeping. No, don't expect Obama should

hand out cans.

Missing the point completely.

[quinnox]

176. At this point, I wouldn't blame ya if you wanted a drink poured

From reading some of these responses, it would drive anyone to want a drink!

[Lucinda]

178. There is nothing to indicate that he ever stopped doing his job re:Sandy. n/t

[quinnox]

184. lol

That is too funny! Love the paper bag too.

That said, I think the OP was unfairly attacked in this thread. I'm definitely on her side in that way.

[TwilightGardener]

189. Yesterday you were upset at Obama for:

Patting Chris Christie on the back too much. Not in a figurative sense, either. In the physical sense. I don't know, do YOU think you're being reasonable? Really?

[DevonRex]

201. She was upset about THAT??? LOL!!!

After reading this thread I shouldn't be surprised, really.

[TwilightGardener]

211. Ooops, I replied to myself--thread posted below.

[DevonRex]

214. I swear.

I'd almost call that an innoculation post after having seen this one.

[TwilightGardener]

209. Here--even she admits it's kinda crazy:

http://www.democraticunderground.com/1251194355#post5

[B Calm]

195. Excuse me, but there's an election next

week!! He has people on it and after the election he can focus even more on the mess.

[progressivebydesign]

198. Unbelievable. It's not like Katrina. It's bad, but they're ON IT... calm down.

It's only been a few days. things will not be back to normal.

The President handled this in an extraordinary fashion NO ONE in power in those States are complaining that he's left them. It's up to FEMA and the States... the President has indicated tonight, as a matter of fact, that he is having constant phone contact with the States in question. FEMA is there, National Guard is there, the State workers are there, the linemen are there.

I'm sorry but you are pushing a right wing talking point, and it's frustrating. What the HELL do you think the President needs to do, that he hasn't done??? Drive dinners to them? Row a fucking boat out there??? What more can the man do??? He has a 15 minute rule with his VERY COMPETENT team that is working on this, he's released funds, he's in constant contact with everyone.

It's only been a few day, and it was a major storm. This is not tv. Things can't go back to the way they were in a day or two. His efforts on this have been Herculean, an NO ONE , even the republican Governors have complained.

[Cha]

210. Thank you, progressivebydesign. I hate these freaking rw talking points.

[LiberalAndProud]

212. He is one man.

Maybe you should "get back on Sandy" and do something?

I'm a bit taken aback that you have decided to put the onus of this on Obama. Sure the aftermath is bad. The storm was devastating. Things can't and won't be back to business as usual for some time, regardless of if Obama stands in the eye of the camera and bites his nails for us or not. Fact is, FEMA is on the job. Nobody had to make a composite video of the crisis to illustrate the problem for our president, as opposed to a storm and a different president in our not-so-distant past.

You need to rethink. Really.

[gkhouston]

213. Are you sure you're the first to say it? Sounds like something fresh off the Drudge presses. n/t

[AtomicKitten]

217. It's Drudge's headline story today.

(you probably already know that)

[gkhouston]

219. Actually, I rarely go there so I didn't know. Not surprised, though. n/t

[AtomicKitten]

238. Me neither; I read it upthread.

[PD Turk]

226. He could get in a lot of trouble for that

If Michelle catches him on Sandy, he's fooked!!

[Divine Discontent]

233. perhaps the only post that needs made for this! lol... I think Obama's been on it since last week

[countryjake]

236. Are you perhaps failing to realize what "utter devastation" means?

I'm not saying that you aren't, but it just seems to me that a pretty big chunk of NYC is a disaster area...there are thousands upon thousands of families experiencing the exact same shock and grief that those Staten Island people are crying about.

I've been watching the news reports all week of the horror those who stayed in place on Staten suffered thru, starting with the videos of the NYPD helicopters plucking many of them off of their roofs early on Tuesday morning...I haven't a doubt those residents have been traumatized, but I also think that sort of trauma results in much of the emotional frenzy that has been shown today on so many of the news channels. They're experiencing a very natural and deep desire to simply "go home", a desperate need for the comfort of the familiar, which most likely will be impossible for them, as it is with almost every disaster in which homes have been lost. Surviving and managing to stay calm when living in a disaster-sheltered environment, depending on emergency relief, is really hard on anyone (just look at the tent cities down in Haiti), but unfortunately, that is the hard truth of utter devastation.

I do know that there are several other areas which were under mandatory evacuation where the residents have only just today been allowed to return, to see for themselves whether or not there was anything left to return to; all of the many dangers that still lurk in that destruction, as first responders systematically clear a region, have been too real.

Registering with the Red Cross and then filling out FEMA applications should be their number one priority (and I know that both are already on Staten Island as I also watched a video on Tuesday where the Red Cross had a table registering south beach folk at one of the shelters). Somehow, I don't see how President Obama holding a clipboard, taking those applications, is going to help matters much. There are tons of volunteers packing up FEMA boxes, probably even as I type this, and frankly, I don't need to see any photo-ops of soup-ladling candidates, taking advantage of hungry folk stuck in a disaster shelter.

Also, if those people know what's good for them, they shouldn't be in such a hurry to have the authorities come around to inspect their damage, only to slap a big "Condemned" notification on their front doors...rather, they might find what comfort they can from their remaining neighbors and surrounding community, because anywhere there is "utter devastation" that also usually means the end of such close community and that is the saddest destruction of all.

[OldDem2012]

240. You should know better than parrot RW talking points. Shameful. nt.

[Tommy_Carcetti]

241. Staten Island sounds more like South Florida after Wilma than New Orleans after Katrina.

I lived through Wilma. It was, well, annoying.

Massive power outages, long lines at the gas pumps, a lot of tired, frustrated people--standard fare for anyone whose suffered a hit by a hurricane. Not fun, but things will eventually return themselves to normal.

But New Orleans and Katrina was a whole new ballgame. You were talking about a major American city underwater for a prolonged period of time. Comparing Staten Island to New Orleans in Katrina is apples to oranges.

[RoccoR5955]

246. Give it a break already. Obama is on it!

These people on Staten Island are nothing more than the whiny teabaggers of NYC, who think that their bowel movements smell like roses. This and Bay Ridge are the two most conservative bastions of NYC. Of course they are going to complain.
They just have to wait, like everyone else!

Or maybe it's time to call out this:

[treestar]

249. Already knew the media would approach it this way.

It's not magic, and it's going to take time, and some people have trouble dealing with that.

Those who did not evacuate are going to tend to be those with magical thinking - of course it's not good enough for them, and they would try to justify their not doing as advised and taking the storm seriously.

I really hate this kind of attitude. Always trying to find out what's wrong and find one man to blame it on, and that one always tending to be the POTUS. The storm is over and there's a lot these people can turn to and do at this point. Things may well be going OK and they are just Republicans looking for a reporter to complain to.

[WilliamPitt]

254. Fail.

http://www.silive.com/news/index.ssf/2012/11/the_feds_heed_staten_islands_s.html

[Laura PourMeADrink]

259. This is great news ! thanks for posting. I am curious why

you would label it "fail" though. All anyone wanted here is that people got the help they needed and secondarily, from the political point of view - it got off the news - for Obama's sake.

peace

[WilliamPitt]

260. You want to know why? Look up.

A whole bunch of people have made the case that you are wildly off-base better than I can.

"First to say it"? Try the hundredth...all on the hyper-excitable network news, and Fox. I'm guessing you saw the screaming lady from Staten Island on your TV and ran to post this thread.

The storm ended only 48 hours ago. The lights will be back on in all of Manhattan by tonight. Utility workers all over the region, plus the National Guard, have poured into the region. The reaction to the storm is as good as anyone can expect it to be.

Breathe.

[LanternWaste]

256. What precisely is he not doing that would give objective and immediate assistance...

What precisely is he personally not doing that would give objective and immediate assistance, and what precisely is he personally doing that is directly preventing additional assistance?

[backscatter712]

258. Fortunately for the nation, Obama isn't so much of a...

[Wind Dancer]

263. Are you really comparing Hurricane Sandy

to Katrina? It's been handled completely differently and I find this OP to be an insult to the intelligence of the DU community.

Do a little research before posting nonsense here.

This is a flame bait thread, nothing more.

[Lone_Star_Dem]

266. Since no one has bothered to talk you down from the ledge, I will.

Go here to see just how many and how much military support the victims of Sandy are getting from the DoD.

http://www.defense.gov/home/features/2012/1012_sandy/

Here's a few headlines.

Quartermaster Soldiers New York-bound

Sailors, Marines Join USS Wasp for Sandy Relief

DOD Continues Support for Hurricane Sandy Response Efforts

FEMA Employs Air Guard Base for Storm Relief

West Coast Airmen Support Superstorm Sandy Relief Efforts

Coast Guard Responds to Superstorm Sandy Damage


There's plenty of coverage in the media of the aid pouring in and Obama's help in that area. Here's a quick and recent example.

In N.J., FEMA forming network of aid centers

<snip>
State and local officials will help determine where the FEMA centers are put, Fugate said.

By Thursday morning, more than 36,000 storm victims from New Jersey, New York, and Connecticut had applied for federal disaster assistance, and more than $3.4 million in aid had been approved for some of them, President Obama's spokesman Jay Carney said.

Gov. Christie sent state police to help protect hard-hit Shore towns from looters. State Attorney General Jeffrey Chiesa vowed looters would face stiff penalties.

"We want those hardest hit by Sandy to know that there is an increased police presence in these Shore communities and that we will be vigilant with respect to their homes and businesses while they are forced to remain inland for their safety," Chiesa said. "At this time, fortunately, we have not received reports of any extensive looting."

The Obama administration said Thursday it would provide about $16 million to hire 1,000 temporary workers in New Jersey to aid with storm cleanup. The money will go toward work on public structures as well as the delivery of humanitarian aid.

The administration also said it would give $10 million to New Jersey for emergency road repairs and reimburse 100 percent of the cost of emergency power and public transportation through Nov. 9 in the New Jersey counties covered under the expanding federal disaster declaration.

That's an increase from the standard 75 percent share the federal
http://www.philly.com/philly/news/new_jersey/20121102_In_N_J___FEMA_forming_network_of_aid_centers.html

Then there's this:

WaPo-ABC tracking poll: High marks for President Obama on Hurricane Sandy response
Nearly eight in 10 likely voters say the president has done an “excellent” or “good” job dealing with what’s been labeled a “super storm.” Almost as many give positive reviews to the federal government’s response generally. Even two-thirds of those who support Republican Mitt Romney in next week’s presidential election say Obama is doing well in this area.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/the-fix/wp/2012/10/31/wapo-abc-tracking-poll-high-marks-for-president-obama-on-hurricane-sandy-response/

Now for a real explanation as to why you're seeing what your seeing on cable infotainment programs. They were counting on Benghazi being something they could spin to create some flack for the president in this last stretch before the election. However, Sandy came and they were worried they'd lost all hope of creating a distraction which would resonate with voters. So, initially this was their planned way to link the two.

Daily Disclosure: Conservative outside ads spin Obama’s Sandy response

With President Barack Obama earning high marks on his response to Hurricane Sandy, conservative outside spending groups and Republicans are seeking to contrast it with charges that he dropped the ball in Benghazi.

Americans for Limited Government’s “Obama Campaign Has Its ‘Perfect Storm’” and Campaign for American Values PAC’s “Obama Has Left Americans Behind” follow the line of attack launched by Michael Brown, the director of FEMA under George W. Bush, who was widely criticized for botching the response to Hurricane Katrina in 2005.

While the new ads do not go quite as far as Brown, who charged the president with acting too quickly on the response to Sandy, they do capitalize on his juxtaposition of the president’s response to Sandy and his response to the terrorist attack on the American consulate in Libya.

Obama was “openly working with New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie during hurricane recovery,” the ALG ad begins. Christie, a Republican with presidential aspirations, heaped praise on the president for his response, which was seen as a hit to GOP nominee Mitt Romney.

http://www.publicintegrity.org/2012/11/02/11683/daily-disclosure-conservative-outside-ads-spin-obama-s-sandy-response

However, facts were released which took all the wind out of that plans sails.

U.S. says CIA responded within 25 minutes to Benghazi attack
Intelligence officials dispute a report by Fox News that officers in Libya were ordered to 'stand down' after the diplomatic compound came under attack.

WASHINGTON — CIA security officers in a Benghazi post responded within 25 minutes to a call for help from a nearby State Department compound after it came under attack Sept. 11, officials said Thursday, seeking to refute a Fox News report asserting that CIA managers ordered them to stay put.

In releasing a detailed timeline of CIA actions that night, senior intelligence officials have put aside long-standing concerns about revealing the extent of the agency's presence in Benghazi in order to push back against what officials say are baseless allegations that aid was withheld.

"At every level in the chain of command, from the senior officers in Libya to the most senior officials in Washington, everyone was fully engaged in trying to provide whatever help they could," a senior intelligence official said in a statement. "There were no orders to anybody to stand down in providing support."


Fox News asserted in a story last week that CIA managers had ordered agency security officers to "stand down" and remain in their own facility, known as the Annex, when the attack on the diplomatic compound began about 9:40 p.m. and that there was an hour delay before officers disobeyed orders and went to help repel the attack that killed Ambassador J. Christopher Stevens and State Department officer Sean Smith.

http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/world/la-fg-libya-cia-20121102,0,2438659.story

Now they're reduced to trying to attack Obama's response to hurricane Sandy and sensationalize that instead.

My suggestion to you, turn off all cable news until after the election. Maybe make a few calls for the campaign, or for a local race, even. That always gets my head cleared all of the political poop and makes me feel better.

Oh, and there's a reason this video resonated with people on both sides of the party divide. We're so sick of all this crap we could all just about break down and cry.

&feature=related


Hang in there. It's almost over!

[DevonRex]

269. Lots of people did. She didn't listen. Just changed her angle of attack. Nt

[B2G]

267. Pack mentality and peer pressure strike again

Totally surprised. lol

[MineralMan]

268. You do know that the original version of your OP is still there, right?

Clicking "Thread Info" lets people see the original post. If you truly want to self-delete, just click the self-delete button. That will lock the thread and actually delete what you wrote.

[cthulu2016]

270. The poster is doing something I applaud -- disassociating herself from it

It is rude to self-delete conversations other people are having, but an OP may wish to disassociate themselves from a thread gone wrong.

Essentially, my OP has become an open forum for random argument, which is fine, but not anything to do with me.

[MineralMan]

271. That's one way to look at it.

Thanks.

[lpbk2713]

272. It must have been interesting, albeit controversial with so many replies.

( I just noticed the OP was self-deleted )