The people of New Orleans elected Jefferson with total disregard for his alleged crime, which is almost certain to result in charges. Why would people support a criminal? They may believe he’s not guilty but more likely they don’t care what his crime is as long as he sticks up for them and their entitlements. I think this is the way some, not all, black voters think especially in areas where there is significant poverty and lack of education. These people think they’re entitled to the piece of the American pie they believe has been stolen from them so what Jefferson did is no big deal to them as long as he gets them what they believe is their just due.

I don’t believe what I’ve said above is racist. There are more and more black people who realize this kind of attitude is wrong and doesn’t benefit them in the long run. People like LaShawn Barber and Bill Cosby talk about similar situations all the time with their motive being trying to change that kind of thinking and get people to realize that there is a better path to economic stability. I really admire them for what they’re doing. They’re genuine leaders and they will make a difference in the lives of lots of people.

Of course people of all races will look at their own purse when voting for someone – that’s only natural – but it’s not natural to throw all your ethics out the door in order to get what you want. As we all well know, the “culture of corruption” will no longer be tolerated in Washignton from any elected official of any race.

I trust you believe that this culture of ‘victimology and entitlement’ comes from a ‘reliance on social welfare programs’. Correct me if I’m wrong.

But, wouldn’t this explanation for crime suggest that high crime rates began with the New Deal in the 1930′s? Of course, homicide rates plummeted during this time, only to rise again in the 1960′s before dropping again in the 90′s.

I don’t know why the right continues to denigrate the service and the risks borne by our troops in Iraq by pretending they would be in more danger if they were drinking Hurricaines and watching the Saints on t.v. in the French Quarter.

According to Wikipedia there between 200,665 to 275,000 citizens of New Orleans. According to Global Security there are 152,000 troops as of 11/06 (though this is somewhat higher than I’ve been hearing).

So, even for this short amount of time. It’s safer to be in New Orleans. If we choose a full year it’s clear what propaganda this is. Let’s pick the most dangerous year of the last 7 in N.O.: In 2003, 273 people were killed- even if we use the lower population numbers of the city today the rate is 100 times greater for American soldiers in Iraq.