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The issue revolved around a federal court order, yet only five federal marshals were present. They stood by while the mob attacked the children. But maintenance of order is primarily a state responsibility. McNair did not ask Mitchell for additional marshals or federal troops and failed to mobilize the National Guard.
After the fact, the response by federal and state officials was vigorous. The White House and Spiro Agnew deplored the incident and vowed that violence would not be allowed to impede desegregation. The FBI moved in to investigate, while state authorities seem bent on prompt prosecution. Even Albert Watson said the rebellion at Lamar should not have happened.