"Unfortunately, we didn't get what we were hoping for -- or expecting, but we are going to press on because we need this president to be our champion, not our critic," Landrieu said.

"I would say it was a very strong and powerful speech, if only I could black out all the problems facing Louisiana and the Gulf Coast," Vitter said. "I was very disappointed at how small a part those national challenges -- and I think they are national challenges -- were given in the speech." Vitter

"I think it's good he's reaffirming his commitment to rebuild," said Rep. Bobby Jindal, R-Kenner. , "I would have hoped" for more concrete commitments to "Category 5 level hurricane protection" and a discussion of how to revive the area's housing and economy.

"I would hope that given that he has come out against the Baker bill he would have offered some alternative to deal with our housing crisis," said Jefferson

"Obviously I wish he had more to say about, not so much my own proposal, but where we might go in terms of the Hurricane Katrina resolution. I thought the fact that it got mentioned at least means it still has his attention, but it doesn't rank as a major issue." Baker

"However, I cannot help but wonder if Washington grasps the situation in Louisiana," Melancon said. "Things aren't getting better by themselves and time is not on our side." Melancon