Well, while we were all wondering what the October Surprise would be that could affect the election, little did we suspect that Nature would provide quite enough surprise in the form of the Storm of the Century.
How has it affect the NorthEast region? An estimated 350,000 are without power in the D. C. area; 2.5 million without power in New Jersey; millions more in New York -- one estimate is that overall the storm has left 7,000,000 without power.
Also in New York, the transportation system was shut down in preparation. Now we hear that five tunnels under the East River are flooded, according to a MTA official, worse than their worst case scenario.
How will it affect the election? Both campaigns suspended active campaigning, although Romney/Ryan appeared in some unplanned areas where they were stranded by air travel restrictions.
Obama suspended all campaigning, cancelling an important appearance with Bill Clinton in Florida. But he has been praised highly for his response, especially by Gov. Chris Christie who said: "I was on the phone at midnight again last night with the president personally. [He] has been outstanding in this, and so have the folks of FEMA . . . been excellent !!"
Having to drop out of the campaign trail is not all bad, for the president anyway, because he has the chance to show his presidential qualities of leadership and steadiness. Seems he's looking great doing this (not to imply that's his motive; he's merely doing his job the way he would do it a month after the election).
But it can't hurt . . . . especially because it inevitably calls up the parallel dismal performance of George W. Bush during Katrina.
Ralph
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There are now reports of 14 foot high waves crashing over the sea wall in lower Manhattan and pouring into the unfinished construction pits of the twin towers.
ReplyDeleteTransportation in New York City still almost non-existent. At least 33 people killed in the U.S., most from falling trees.
At least they can't blame this on Obama (but watch them try).
Reports asked Romney today in a news conference 14 times about the storm and his plans for FEMA. He ignored them all -- even when one reported stated "You have been asked 14 times . . . "
ReplyDeleteHe still ignored the questions.