Katrina -- Delayed Response

ABC News:

"Experts say when natural disasters strike, it is the primary responsibility of state and local governments — not the federal government — to respond."

"Federal officials say in order to get involved, they must first be asked to do so by state officials."

"As one FEMA official told ABC News, Louisiana Gov. Kathleen Blanco failed to submit a request for help in a timely manner."

"Shortly before Katrina hit, she sent President Bush a request, asking for shelter and provisions, but didn't specifically ask for help with evacuations. One aide to the governor told ABC News today Blanco thought city officials were taking care of the evacuation."

"New Orleans' own comprehensive emergency plan....was not followed completely."

CYA is a Big Job:
"A bureaucrat's prime directive is "Cover your behind at all costs, and if you can blame your enemies in the process, so much the better.""

KATRINA - THE REPORT CARD