In the wake of the Southern California fires — which have made all of my neighborhood smell like an ashtray, even though it is a good 15 miles to the nearest fire — FEMA indulged in a little political theatre. Specifically, theygave a press conference with no real reporters and FEMA employees posing as reporters.

he agency had called the briefing with about 15 minutes notice as federal officials headed for southern California to oversee and assist in firefighting and rescue efforts. Reporters were also given a telephone number to listen in on but could not ask questions.

But with no reporters on hand and an agency video camera providing a feed carried live by some television networks, FEMA press employees posed the questions for Johnson that included: "Are you happy with FEMA's response so far?"

According to Friday's Post account, which Walker confirmed, Johnson replied that he was "very happy with FEMA's response so far."

Other reported questions: "Sir, would you characterize the President's concern as grave, empathetic, or heroic?" "Sir, have you lost weight?"

Last 5 posts by Ken

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