Hap, "...response must come from local resources" - it sounds like you are suggesting we really don't need the Homeland Security gang for which we're paying millions $$$ and have come to expect would help when needed - not just regards those as "terrorists" GWB likes to mention in just about every speech but SECURITY during a HOMELAND tragedy.
It would not surprise me if the inability of the HS gang to react more quickly did not go unnoticed by terrorists.
The entire episode was a major blunder by GWB and his admin, and no amount of (belated) spin can change the facts.
"If we talk about the economy, we'll lose"
-Bush44's top aide
"This campaign is not about issues"
-Rick Davis, Bush44's Campaign Manager