A cluster of tornadoes currently touching down in Arkansas might have a similarly stormy effect on Gov. Mike Huckabee's presidential bid. Given the candidate's contentious history with emergency response and disaster relief in his state, the storm could either wreak havoc on his campaign or provide him the chance to showcase his oft-criticized crisis chops.

In 1997, after a tornado in his home state killed 25 people, Huckabee refused to authorize disaster relief, arguing that tornadoes are not an "act of God." He held up legislation for three weeks before the phrase was stricken from the bill.

The system of tornadoes that strafed five states yesterday, killing two people, leveling neighborhoods, and toppling railroad cars, is reportedly now in northern Arkansas, putting eight counties, and presumably the Huckabee staff, on tornado watch.

Asked how his past decisions might play in his response to the current situation, Huckabee had only the following to say to Radar from the campaign trail in New Hampshire: "Janet and I send our prayers to those affected by the tornadoes and storms hitting Arkansas and other states in the Midwest. We are monitoring developments and appreciate the dedication of the emergency responders and others who are working to alleviate the damage and provide comfort to those in need. Having been through tornadoes many times, we know all too well the pain it causes for families."