We all hope that the top kill will work. Fingers crossed and sacrificing a chicken.

Not aware of secrecy. Head of Coast Guard, officials of BP, others have made frequent statements.

Also, remember that it is the major oil companies that have the scientific and engineering personnel, not the U. S. government, as Obama stated today. We may not like it, but BP is better positioned than the government to stop the spill.

BP also took control of shore cleanup- perhaps the National Guard would do a better job. The government has not said enough about this and perhaps their actions were slow- I don't know the 'logistics' of setting up the clean-up.
The Coast guard head has reported daily, but said little more than he approved of what BP was doing.

Other oil companies have not spoken out because they would be trying the exact same measures to block the blow-out, and responsible people do not second-guess unless they are convinced that they have something better to propose.
John Hofmeister, retired president of Shell, has made suggestions, he no longer has to answer to shareholders. His tanker suggestion has some merit, but to get close to the marshes, shallow draft barges would have to do inshore work. He was worried that there may be several 'leaks'.

It looks like the administration is serious about cleaning house in the MMS, with the departure of its head and separation of responsibilities.