When the feds don't come

Letter to George W. Bush from Louisiana Governor Kathleen Blanco on August 27, 2005, two days before Katrina hit (my emphasis):

In response to the situation I have taken appropriate action under State law and directed the execution of the State Emergency Plan on August 26, 2005 in accordance with Section 501 (a) of the Stafford Act. A State of Emergency has been issued for the State in order to support the evacuations of the coastal areas in accordance with our State Evacuation Plan and the remainder of the state to support the State Special Needs and Sheltering Plan.

Pursuant to 44 CFR § 206.35, I have determined that this incident is of such severity and magnitude that effective response is beyond the capabilities of the State and affected local governments, and that supplementary Federal assistance is necessary to save lives, protect property, public health, and safety, or to lessen or avert the threat of a disaster. I am specifically requesting emergency protective measures, direct Federal Assistance, Individual and Household Program (IHP) assistance, Special Needs Program assistance, and debris removal.

The state knew it could not handle all that had to be done, and went to Bush for help. His people then waited until hours after the storm hit to do anything, and even then suggested those left behind could wait a few days.

That's Bushian leadership in action.