Two Florida politicians in Washington are reacting in slightly different ways to the Egyptian people's overthrow of their dictator-president, Hosni Mubarak.

Sen. Marco Rubio, praised the accomplishment of the people and the hope it infuses to the region abroad. But the statement from Ileana Ros-Lehtinen carried more of a cautionary tone. Both addressed the importance of taking the right steps for Egypt and the U.S. as the country attempts to transition to democracy.

See both statements below.

U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio:
“This is an historic moment for Egypt and the Middle East. For perhaps the first time in its long history, Egypt’s government has listened to and heeded its people’s legitimate demands for greater freedoms and an end to corruption. This is an opportunity for the Egyptian people to chart a new, more hopeful and democratic future. Today’s events should hearten those struggling for greater freedom and respect for human rights in our own hemisphere.

“Egypt is a key U.S. partner and we must give our full support to ensure an irreversible and nonviolent transition to genuine democracy. It is imperative that a new Egypt continues to honor its commitment to regional peace and security in the Middle East, especially to its neighbor Israel.”

Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen:
“Now that the immediate demands of the Egyptian people have been met, steps must be taken for the prompt commencement of a calm and orderly transition process toward freedom and democracy in Egypt. 

“This transition must include constitutional and administrative reforms, starting with the repeal of the emergency laws. These are necessary for legitimate, democratic, internationally-recognized elections to take place with peaceful, responsible actors who will not only advance the aspirations of the Egyptian people, but will continue to enforce Egypt’s international obligations.

“The Egyptian military can continue to play a constructive role in providing for security and stability during this transformational period.

“The U.S. and our allies must focus our efforts on helping to create the necessary conditions for such a transition to take place. We must also urge the unequivocal rejection of any involvement by the Muslim Brotherhood and other extremists who may seek to exploit and hijack these events to gain power, oppress the Egyptian people, and do great harm to Egypt’s relationship with the United States, Israel, and other free nations.”

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