Whenever natural disaster strikes, the nation’s governors always have the same response. Where are the Feds? When will help from Washington arrive?

Listen to Republican Gov. Chris Christie of New Jersey, a hero to many conservatives. After Hurricane Irene swamped his state, he praised President Obama for urging the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to “cut the red tape” and deliver aid quickly.

“I believe that he’s going to be able to get it done,” the governor said of the president, “and I think he deserves great credit for the way FEMA operated in this storm.”

Those are instructive words at a time when another Republican governor, Rick Perry of Texas, is running for president on a very different message. Perry has shot to the front of the GOP field with a promise to “work every day to make Washington, D.C., as inconsequential in your life as I can.”

Well, Gov. Perry, meet Gov. Christie. Or the millions of Americans on the East Coast who are depending on federal help in the aftermath of Irene. Better yet, remember the citizens of West Texas who were devastated by wildfires last spring. And remember that you pleaded with Washington for disaster relief and were furious when you were turned down.

“I am dismayed that this administration has denied Texans the much-needed assistance they deserve,” Perry declared. “It is not only the obligation of the federal government but its responsibility under law to help its citizens in times of emergency.”