Federal Government's Potential Role in the Katrina Crisis Reconstruction

In the editorial “Helping the Katrina Homeless” the author argues that local, state, and federal government need to become involved in the reconstruction of people’s homes and lives that were destroyed by Hurrican Katrina. The argument is directed towards the general public and U.S. citizens so they can be aware of the devastation still present in New Orleans. The author argues that the first thing to be done is congress approving $73 million funding to help fix the issue. The next two actions are to “extend the disaster housing assistance program, which is set to expire in March 2009,” and to rewrite the federal disaster law. If these two steps are not taken, the author states that there will be even more homeless, and sick people than before. He also mentions that homelessness has doubled since the storm. These facts strengthen this argument and give readers a reason to agree with what is being stated. The reader is also convinced when the author states “such a measure passed the Senate . . .” which reveals there is real potential for these ideas. There are many people unaware that victims are still suffering from Hurricane Katrina, and this article brings the issue back to the surface. It is convincing because it states many facts of ill people and that the amount homelessness have increased. I feel even more strongly that the government should aid them after reading this article. The political importance is that it shows congress at work. The Senate agree but the House of Representatives do not, and because of the American system nothing can be done without further support. This is why this article is so critical; it persuades people to agree with the plans which can in turn encourage and influence the government's decision.