NEW ORLEANS (AP) - Intent on showing firm command of the deepening crisis in the Gulf of Mexico, President Barack Obama flew to coastal Louisiana Friday for his second in-person update of the devastating oil spill.

Criticism of Obama is rising as crude continues to gush out of the leak 38 days after the oil rig exploded and sank. Amid fears
the crisis that is endangering the Gulf region's wildlife and economy could soon also engulf his presidency, Obama has launched a campaign to step up public engagement and directly confront the public's anger.