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Johanns: U.S. should support pro-democracy demonstrations in Middle East

Sen. Mike Johanns, R-NE
Sen. Mike Johanns, R-NE

By Katie Knapp Schubert

Omaha, NE – Nebraska's Republican U.S. Senator says President Obama should express support for pro-democracy protestors in the Middle East.

Protests have spread to Bahrain and other countries since an 18-day revolution in Egypt led to the resignation of longtime president Hosni Mubarak. Senator Mike Johanns says the U.S. should stand with protestors who no longer want to live under oppressive regimes. "I just feel strongly we need to stand with them, we need to encourage them and give them courage to say about that type of ruling that enough is enough."

At least three protestors died in Bahrain when police there used tear gas and guns to break up demonstrations. In Egypt, the military remains in control.

Johanns' comments came Thursday during his weekly conference call with Nebraska media.