Case study in federalism: the storm
Assignment Prompts:
Address each of the following questions using the video and outside research using peer-reviewed scholarly sources:
1.Why did the communications system break down hours after Hurricane Katrina?
2.How is the issue of “interoperability” dangerous to the concept of federalism and our entire system of government?
3.What was the purpose of the Hurricane Pam exercise? List at least 3 reasons why was it unsuccessful?What lessons could have been learned, had it been completed?
4.Research some of the criticisms of President George W. Bush’s initial response to Hurricane Katrina? Were those criticisms justified after seeing this video? Why or why not?
5.Discuss what some experts feel can be done differently in the future (policy reforms)? This requires outside research
.6.What are the overall lessons learned for FEMA and the nation from the events related to Hurricane Katrina?