Campaign Contributions and Our Own Little Bhopal

Chemical plants could serve as a "force multiplier" for terrorists. That is, set off a small bomb there, and the resulting gas cloud could kill hundreds, thousands, or even millions. In fact, your government found that 123 chemical plants around the country could be attacked in such a way as to kill a million Americans or more. But improving security at those plants would cut into profits. It's cheaper to contribute say $545,000 to a Presidential campaign. Surprise, surprise! Now instead of 123 plants threatening a million lives -- the government cuts the number to only 2. Sleep easier, but wear a gas mask. (NYT - Opinion)