At least, even some Republicans have called for Bush to wack Brownie. (photo on right) Another example of the dangers inherent in cronyism, nepotism and beyond.

Atrios posted the following quote:
"... I went to Florida a few days after President Bush did to observe the damage from Hurricane Andrew. I had dealt with a lot of natural disasters as governor, including floods, droughts, and tornadoes, but I had never seen anything like this. I was surprised to hear complaints from both local officials and residents about how the Federal Emergency Management Agency was handling the aftermath of the hurricane. Traditionally, the job of FEMA director was given to a political supporter of the President who wanted some plum position but who had no experience with emergencies. I made a mental note to avoid that mistake if I won. Voters don't chose a President based on how he'll handle disasters, but if they're faced with one themselves, it quickly becomes the most important issue in their lives."

-Bill Clinton, My Life (p. 428)

62 Billion Dollar windfall goes to......: "no-bid contracts have already been let and billions more are to flow to the private sector in the weeks and months to come."
"Mr. Allbaugh(former FEMA director appointed by Bush, 2002-03; now high priced consultant) said that he was helping private companies, including his clients, cut through federal red tape to speed provision of services and supplies to the storm-wracked region. Two of his major clients, Kellogg Brown & Root, a subsidiary of Halliburton, and The Shaw Group, already are at work on disaster response efforts." Ahhhhh...., so thoughtful and considerate. Compassionate cronyism at its best!

Evil and beyond: Bush cuts the prevailing wage for construction workers in LA. Hey, there is nothing like beating down the poor while they are down. Compassionate cronyism beyond our dreams.

NOLA begins confiscating firearms
Ummmm.............? What was the purpose of the 2nd amendment?
"No civilians in New Orleans will be allowed to carry pistols, shotguns or other firearms, said P. Edwin Compass III, the superintendent of police. "Only law enforcement are allowed to have weapons," he said.
But that order apparently does not apply to hundreds of security guards hired by businesses and some wealthy individuals to protect property. The guards, employees of private security companies like Blackwater, openly carry M-16's and other assault rifles".

Joseph Lieberman was the chair of the Senate Governmental Affairs Committee that approved 'Brownie' for the job of FEMA ' deputy director
Amazing how he shows up in just the right places.

Quote of the Week: via Maureen Dowd's whimsical, painful reality check "Neigh to Cronies"
"The Wall Street Journal reported that Representative Richard Baker of Baton Rouge was overheard telling lobbyists: "We finally cleaned up public housing in New Orleans. We couldn't do it, but God did.""

If you have time, Cindy's piece is worthy: What Kind of Extremist Will You Be?