Blog: A Definite Reaction

Physics questions and ice cream preference aside, I voice my beliefs and stick with them easily. I am not as concerned as I should be when I engage someone about politics and I certainly do not think twice before questioning a historian that studied for decades to reach their thesis if I have any doubts. As I watch our nation’s leaders react to the riots and rebellion in Egypt however, I am alarmed. They have decided not to take the vocal, decisive route, and it remains unclear what position the United States government has officially taken.

The people of Egypt are making it clear that Mubarak, the Egyptian president, is no longer the person they wish to represent them, but what stance will the leaders of our nation take to respond to this crisis? Deciding the best path for our nation in response to the tumult in Egypt is no easy task. I understand that it is a mammoth issue as the president or Secretary of State, to finalize a platform that millions will critique, but that is no excuse.

For decades, politicians and government officials from all political parties have sat quietly and unresponsively as world events pass them by. Several political leaders have been making comments as new events occur in Egypt, but have not actually settled on a position, while others have avoided making comments at all.

Millions turn to these people for answers and millions are currently being held in limbo. I am not asking the U.S. to go to war against Mubarak, supply weapons to the protesters, or even reach out to either side. I simply want a statement that will hold true for an extended period of time. No going back, no changing the course of action.

Many of you are probably asking, what can be gained from jumping in headfirst? To that I answer with one simple word: everything. The things that can be gained far outweigh the overblown risks. If you don’t believe me, don’t look to Washington for decisive answers.