Do We Have Failed States?

The concept of "failed state" is generally applied to nations that do not provide effective governance and security to meet the everyday order, safety, and means of dealing with problems as them come up. Think of Somalia as an example in point. And Venezuela seems to be moving in that direction.

But what about the individual American states? Are there any states or territories whose economy, safety, civic or state services seem to be in peril? In plain terms, are there states that plain are not working or working very well? And what about corruption?

It's pretty plain that the U.S. territory of Puerto Rico is an economic basket case. It has high unemployment, insufficient services, heavy dependence on outside money, crime, and other problems. The Zika virus is expected to create a lot of havoc, with illnesses and birth defects. At the very least, widespread effective mosquito control should be made, and birth control and termination should be put into place effectively.

Some American states have institutional corruption; but otherwise do effectively perform despite that moral handicap. Illinois and New Jersey fall there.

California has serious drought and fire problems; but the strong government and commitment to solving problems seems to be coping with that. And, of course, we have the winters. But we've adapted to that predictable season.

But the term "failed state" is most applicable to Louisiana. The natives see themselves as living in a land of Cockagnie, while it is falling apart. It is by its topography and location highly susceptible to natural disasters that make it repeatedly exposed to hurricanes, flooding, tornadoes, and other catastrophes. Politics there makes it a near-kleptocracy. Crime is high, especially in New Orleans and Baton Rouge; and race relations are not good at all. It's history is rife with criminal mistreatment of African-Americans. In all, it's a sad mess. The recent flooding north of New Orleans really calls into question the continued suitability of a population in many parts, especially with global warming and climate change. (Which many foolishly ignore.)

It think it would be an immense project; but the Federal Government should consider a widespread but voluntary relocation of the unfortunates that happen to live there. Maybe with relocation to other states, they might come to appreciate the advantages of better government and develop healthier outlooks.