Congressman Chris Murphy (CT-5), a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, released the following statement on the news that Egypt's President Hosni Mubarak has stepped down.
"Egypt has taken its first steps towards real democracy and self-determination. After three decades of repressive emergency rule, millions of Egyptians came together to make their voices heard in a call for peaceful, democratic change.
"Building a legitimate, inclusive government from the ground up won't be easy, and hard work lies ahead as Egypt begins that difficult - but long-overdue - process. As a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, I will work to ensure that the U.S. remains a committed partner in helping Egypt establish the democratic self-rule it deserves.
"Republicans and Democrats have come together to affirm the universal rights of freedom of assembly, freedom of speech, and freedom to communicate and access information. The United States stands firmly on the side of the Egyptian people and we are ready to support them as they determine their own future."