Abstract This paper presents both sides of the hurricane Katrina debate. It then provides a plethora of evidence to suggest that the federal government (rather than state and local government) is responsible for the delays in rescue and relief following hurricane Katrina. It cites the mistakes of Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff, FEMA and FEMA director Michael Brown and the President of the United States.
From the Paper "There is evidence to suggest that the federal government understood the serious threat hurricane Katrina posed on the low-lying Gulf region, and that they did make some effort to convey this danger and urge people out of harm's way. On Saturday August, 27th, President Bush declared a state of emergency in Louisiana and encouraged people to evacuate the New Orleans area before the storm made landfall. Prior to the storm, flood and storm surge predictions were made by the National Hurricane Center in Miami. At least 200 buses were sent to aid in evacuations before the event. The federal government did express concerns over the levee system's ability to weather the storm and operate under such difficult conditions."
Abstract This paper discusses the implications of public relations regarding the Katrina disaster for President George W. Bush and the Republican Party.
This is in light of the fact that the public approval of the president's handling of his job and personal favorability ratings have declined to low levels among American voters. The Bush administration's decisions on the War in Iraq are increasingly unpopular among voters, with low approval rates of the president's handling of the war and deep doubts about the value of the war in relation to costs. The president's ratings have sharply declined as a result of the president's handling of Hurricane Katrina. The paper concludes that voters are increasingly dissatisfied with Bush's presidency. It is therefore clear that the Bush administration will have to work long and hard to come up with new ideas for improving the president's image or face an unsuccessful second term.
Table of Contents
Abstract
Introduction
Statement of the Problem
Methodology and Data Collection
Results and Discussion
Conclusion
References
Appendices
From the Paper "In recent months, much of America's attention has been focused upon the tragedies associated with Hurricane Katrina's damage to Louisiana. Among the issues associated with the aftermath has been the performance of President George W. Bush and the federal government in responding to the catastrophe. Many national polls (Silverman, 2005, CBS News, 2005) have shown significant dissatisfaction with Bush's handling of the hurricane's damage."
