Armed Services Committee Member Rep. Garamendi Encourages Egyptian Government & Opposition to Embrace Peaceful Transition to Democracy

Says Recent Change in Middle East is "Wakeup Call" that America Must Embrace Domestic Cleaner Energy Sources to Meet Energy Needs of 21st Century

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman John Garamendi (D-Walnut Creek, CA), a member of the House Armed Services Committee and a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer, today called on the Egyptian government, military, and opposition factions to embrace a peaceful transition to democracy and free and fair elections.

"Egypt has a proud and rich history as a leader in the Middle East, and the Egyptian people now have an opportunity to once again lead the way – this time toward an open and free democracy," said Congressman Garamendi. "The people of Egypt deserve self-determination, the ability to choose their own leaders. There must be a period of transition before elections can occur, and I urge the government, the military, and opposition factions to respect human rights and renounce violence. America will work with the democratically elected leaders of Egypt to ensure regional stability and security."

"While the pro-democracy marches in Tunisia and Egypt have been relatively peaceful, rapid change near the largest oil deposits in the world must concern many economists and energy experts," added Congressman Garamendi. "These incidents remind us that we rely too much on dirty fossil fuels in an unpredictable part of the world. While I stand with the people of Tunisia and Egypt as they transition to a freer form of government, I hope this is a wakeup call to the American people that we must invest in domestic cleaner energy production and research, such as solar, wind, advanced biofuels, the Integral Fast Reactor, and fusion."