When you read about the worst cities in the United States you'll find that they all share a common characteristic: each has been under Democratic leadership for decades. Most of you have read horror stories about some of these cities; Detroit, Cleveland, Birmingham, St. Louis, and New Orleans. In many ways, the deterioration of these cities is a microcosm of what's gone wrong with our nation.
As the 1970s drew to a close, I decided to move to New Orleans. Media at that time avoided reporting real conditions in the city, so I had no reservations about moving there. Obviously, the celebrated joie de vivre depictions of New Orleans in story and song helped influence my decision. But I didn't find that New Orleans, "The Big Easy." Permanent residents experience a different New Orleans from the one experienced by tourists. For new residents "the mythology of New Orleans" soon gives way to "the reality of New Orleans."
