Intriguing idea - API would not lose their freedom of action in the future (they could still decide to release it later if Michelle Obama did not), but it would focus the public attention upon her and put the onus on her to decide what to do with the recording (IF one really exists).
API’s website says they are based in Norway, but I haven’t seen anything about what their legal situation might be there if that’s where the call was recorded (unless they had someone in the USA who was called by Michelle). Hope they have sorted out the legal issues, and IF there is an obstacle to simply releasing the recoding then your idea is especially attractive.... but they could follow your suggestion in any case, and put the burden upon Michelle O. to release or not release first.
ping