Public corruption, as you've seen in New Orleans and Louisiana, is something that has dealt in the past crippling blows to our government to provide assistance.

We appear to be moving in the right direction. There appears to be less and less shootings in the city and we won't stop until the final shot is fired and the individual is arrested.

We are extremely sensitive to the notion that there are a few public officials out there -- consistent with activities we've seen in this state -- that may be inclined to exploit the funding available to rebuilding efforts.

No one -- whether citizen or public official -- will be permitted to illegally profit at the expense of the communities and citizens who so desperately need FEMA funds and assistance in the wake of this region's terrible disaster.

New Orleans' survival depends on three things. Getting a handle on violent crime, building a viable public school system and eradicating the abject and debilitating corruption that that has plagued New Orleans for so long.

Louisiana is famous, if not infamous, for its corruption.