Decision Points, by Pres. George W. Bush: on Environment

Kathleen Blanco: Refused to authorize federal involvement in Katrina

"The governor is in charge," Mayor Ray Nagin said, pointing across the table at Gov. Kathleen Blanco.

Every head pivoted in her direction. The Louisiana governor froze. She looked agitated and exhausted. "I think it's the mayor," she said noncommittally. Four days had passed since Hurricane Katrina smashed into the Gulf Coast. By law, state & local authorities lead the response to natural disasters, with the federal government playing a subordinate role.

I asked to speak to Gov. Blanco privately. I told her it was clear the state and local response forces had been overwhelmed. "Governor," I pressed, "you need to authorize the federal government to take charge of the response."

She told me she needed 24 hours to think it over. "We don't have 24 hours," I snapped. "We've waited too long already." The governor refused to give an answer.