Staten Island Ferry Crash, Some New Yorkers Blame Obama

Now, you all have heard of the ferry crash in Staten Island on the morning of May 8, 2010. While few were hurt by the collision that was the result of a mechanical failure, I was surprised to see how many pointed a finger at Obama.

Many said that regulations should be put into place for seatbelts and airbags. As this obviously isn't the first time a ferry had issues. Last year in July a ferry came head-to-head in St. George becuase the transformer cut out and the boat lost power.

Before I go into my thoughts, I'd like to say that I am happy to hear that no serious injuries occured. I could understand this being a concern for those who take the ferry regularly as it is a major mode of transportation. Especially if that's how you get to work or if your a visitor.

Now, I fail to see how this is the fault of the president. Sure, we have much to discuss on other issues involving him, but as far as regulations go, I wouldn't imagine the president being cause to blame. I'm sure if there were any regulations to be put into effect, the governor could help with that.

Next, seatbelts and airbags? Airbags, okay. Seatbelts, no. I take seatbelts on ferry's like I would seatbelts being on the majority of school buses. The reason they aren't there is becuase if anything happens and that belt doesn't work, you'll need a knive or something similar to get out. Maybe if you have an infant. You'll be able to get them out otherwise.

My prayers go out to those hurt by this incident. May you recover quickly.
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hhusted 2yrs+
I don't think it is the fault of the president, nor is it the responsibility of the Governor. This seems to be a city problem. As such, Bloomberg should have more involvement in such things. He is oblivious to many things of this city. This is why I am surprised he was re-elected.

I also feel bad about the people who were injured and hope they have a speedy recovery.
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uptowngirl 2yrs+
@Freyja4 Blaming Obama for a mechanical failure on a local ferry is just plain ridiculous...what is the city coming to???
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Freyja4 2yrs+
People I think like to blame others when there is no blame to be put anywhere. Some sort of ego aspect I'd imagine. Maybe a complex of sorts. Still, people blamed presidents for many things that they couldn't control in the past. Though I didn't like the fact that Bush didn't seem to care when Katrina hit but he did when Galvetson did. I lived in Texas for a long time (high school) and I don't blame people for thinking it was favoritism. I understand he is from Texas, but Texas isn't the only state that has seen devestation.
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DBlack 2yrs+
It's silly that the complainers want to institute such dumb measures. Seat belts on ferries? What?!? Are we not all adults here and can reasonably hold on to the damn rail?
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JenMac 2yrs+
Most people don't even wear seatbelts when they're in a cab (which is crazy). I don't know how they would ever implement seatbelts on a ferry.
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Wait, how is this Obama's fault again? I mean, what's the rationale behind blaming him, flimsy as it might be?
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DBlack 2yrs+
I love how everything can be the mayor's fault, or the president's, or what have you. Definitely a way to regress back to being an adolescent and not having to take responsibility for yourself. Hold the handrails, how hard is that?
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uptowngirl 2yrs+
@JenMac I have never worn a seatbelt in a cab...are backseat riders also expected to wear them? I know in some countries that is the law..
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uptowngirl 2yrs+
@JenMac I have never worn a seatbelt in a cab...are backseat riders also expected to wear them? I know in some countries that is the law..
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NeverSleeps 2yrs+
Right...who exactly is saying this is Obama's fault? Or even his responsibility? I think he might have other things in his day planner to be concerned with.
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NeverSleeps 2yrs+
I always wear seatbelts in cabs. I feel naked without one.
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uptowngirl 2yrs+
@NeverSleeps I think I better start wearing one...especially if its the law and all that..
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NeverSleeps 2yrs+
@uptowngirl Yes! And because there are a lot of crazy drivers in cabs.
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