I believe in American exceptionalism...that we've been granted an opportunity, through our economic success, military dominance and charitable spirit, to help others.
There's a right way to do that and a wrong way. George W. showed us that the neo-conservative approach is not only wrong, it worsens things.
Before him? Decades of supporting thugs, dictators, and terrorists. We send them aid which they use against their own people. No wonder they resent us.
Obama MUST say the following:
- We support the people of Egypt, and all the peoples of the world that feel repressed by their governments.
- We will not give a dollar of economic or military aid to countries that don't allow peaceful assembly, regular elections, free speech, freedom of the press, freedom of religion.
- We will never again sell or donate weapons, including riot gear like tear gas, to other countries. We're not going to be complicit in murder or oppression. We will defend our allies, but they are responsible for funding their own militaries.
- We are going to air-drop food and medical supplies into Egypt, for the people.
That's it. It's a four-point plan. It's a moral course. It's the only way to win the hearts and minds of the people --- to encourage Democracy --- to work towards peace.