When disasters hit, politicians use them to show their constituents they really care about them.  They also want to prevent their opponents from using the disaster against them in political advertisements during the next election – and for some politicians this is the only reason they lift a hand to help.

Of course, there are a few elected officials who genuinely do care.

It’s important for politicians to show they care because we all remember President Bush and Hurricane Katrina.  Bush was strongly criticized for almost every move he made during the disaster.  Most of it was not deserved, but damage was done.  Politicians from every level understand that disasters are their time to shine or to fail miserably in the eyes of their constituents (and give their opponents some traction).

While Montana has not been hit by a disaster such as what Joplin (MO) suffered, Montanans are feeling the effects of too much rain and a spring thaw from an above-average snowpack.  Montana politicians have sprung into action to “offer assistance” to those affected by “historic flooding.”

So, let’s take a look at their responses: Continue reading →