Thread by @LukeRussert

I’d like to tell a story about the Blizzard of 1977 that hit Buffalo. To date, still the worst the city has ever seen. It should serve as a reminder that when anybody says a “federal office holder can’t help re a state issue” that they’re full of BS. #CruzToCancun

My late father was an aide to Senator Moynihan in his Buffalo office. The blizzard hits and dad knew right away the city was in trouble. This was no ordinary storm. He calls the Mayor of Buffalo and goes how can we help? Mayor says we need Fed aide now.

Twenty-Seven year old Tim Russert calls up Senator Moynihan. Implores him to get to Buffalo as soon as it is safe to do so. Moynihan calls the Mayor and says he will promptly ask with President Carter for federal emergency assistance. It happens, help is on the way.

Throughout the process dad is giving updates to Moynihan about the situation on the ground. People trapped in their homes, hospitals shut down, babies being born in bath tubs, people starving etc. Moynihan remains in contact with the feds and Gov. Help is targeted.

Once storm has passed through. Moynihan arrives in Buffalo. He is driven around by dad. Shown the worst areas & introduced to the community leaders. Moynihan realizes the city will need a lot of help going forward. This isn’t a one off-Moynihan makes sure the Fed help is there.

Dad drives Moynihan to the airport. The Senator says, “You’re coming with me. I need a guy like you in DC.” The rest is history. Moynihan wins big in ‘82, highest margins in history, especially around Buffalo. People remembered who stood by them in a time of crisis.

The great @Lawrence told this story way better than I did a few years back: msnbc.com/the-last-word/…

In conclusion, when you’re an elected leader, your first responsibility is the well-being of your constituents. That is literally you’re only job. It doesn’t matter if you’re the neighborhood council or President. You serve the people. Get your ass home and do your job.

Yes, this is personal as my aunt and cousins near Plano have been through hell since the weekend. They’re #BuffaloStrong but seriously people are dying and the Senator who represents 30 million wants to slam all inclusive margaritas in a foreign country during a pandemic. Enough!