Just as the coronavirus ruthlessly attacks vulnerable points in the human body, the pandemic is also exposing weaknesses in a range of society’s organizations and arrangements. Government is no exception.

But as difficult as a crisis like this can be, with effective leadership there are also opportunities for far-reaching reform and improvement.

The people of New York City recall the hellish 9/11 attacks. As devastating as they were, valorous, tough-minded actions by determined citizens and public servants alike resulted in extraordinary recoveries in Manhattan, the state of New York and the nation. Many aspects of life in the city after 9/11 were even better than before.