A presidential governor

I have been getting into the habit of watching the daily briefings presented by New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo, usually followed by the White House briefings. The contrast in both tone and content between them is nothing less than astounding.

For those who have not been following, Cuomo begins by detailing the current New York state statistics, including the number of tests performed, positive tests, new hospitalizations, number in intensive care units, number of new deaths and other hard data. He follows this with the totals so far and then concludes the analytical portion with the experts’ best projection of what to expect next. He then describes what resources are and will be needed, describes what is available, how much of a shortfall there is and what the state is doing to make up that shortfall. He concludes with his opinions (which he clearly separates from fact) and some very human, personal vignettes. He then entertains questions, for which he provides honest, straightforward answers.

In contrast, the White House briefings (other than Dr. Anthony Fauci) seem more like a Donald Trump political rally than our government attempting to provide honest, correct, up-to-date information, guidance and comfort. Any glimmer of hope that the president, in the face of a national crisis, would rise to the occasion has been dashed on the sharp rocks of reality. He spends most of his time disregarding his own experts’ advice, providing incorrect (and in at least one case, deadly) information, promoting conspiracy theories and trashtalking governors. As usual, he takes any credit available (even if the credit is due others) and takes no responsibility for the mistakes he and his administration have clearly made.

Try the following thought experiment: Imagine Trump as governor of New York and Cuomo as president. As a New Yorker, how would you feel? As an American, how would you feel? If you asked me, I would be much more comfortable with Cuomo in the White House. And if I were a New Yorker, I would move.

Ira Agins Santa Fe