Michael’s Picks

by Michael De Dora

* Steven Hurst of the Associated Press provides some background on the moral conundrum the U.S. has faced in Egypt.

* Helene Cooper argues (poorly, I think) in the New York Times that American political rhetoric towards Egypt might not have helped.

* The Times details the process by which Obama urged Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak to declare he would not run for re-election in September.

* Just how large is the religious right in Egypt? Two political scientists give their answer.

* Shadi Hamid clears up some misconceptions of the Muslim Brotherhood, and discusses how the U.S. can handle the Brotherhood's potentially increased role in a democracy in Egypt.

* Reza Aslan reflects on hypocritical remarks of religious American politicians regarding the Brotherhood, and discusses Egyptian democracy.

* Mike Huckabee and other friendly faces at FOX News are questioning whether Obama acted hastily.

* And many Israelis are angered by Obama's handling of the situation.

* Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair stated that Mubarak is "immensely courageous, and a force for good," and that the West should support him.