Schwartz Comment on Giffords Resolution

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SCHWARTZ STATEMENT ON RESOLUTION HONORING REP. GIFFORDS AND THE VICTIMS OF THE ARIZONA SHOOTING

Washington, D.C. - U.S. Rep. Allyson Schwartz read the following statement on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives today in support of a resolution honoring Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords, her staff, and the victims of the tragic shooting that took place in Tucson, Arizona.

“Last Saturday, in Tucson and across the country, so many Americans, including myself, are horrified and deeply saddened by the mass shooting at a congressional outreach event hosted by U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords.

“The senselessness, the violence, and the magnitude of the death and injury was stunning and alarming. This is a very personal tragedy. And, it is a national tragedy. It is tragedy that is heartbreaking and wrenching.

“Members reaching out to their constituents and constituents having the opportunity, formally or informally, to talk with their Representative in Congress is at the core of our responsibilities, and a value we all hold as Americans.

“Even as we mourn, as Americans we cannot allow this to diminish or deter our civic interactions.

“I ask for my colleagues to join together in honoring those killed. My thoughts and deepest sympathies are with their loved ones.

“Gabby is my colleague and friend. I share in acknowledging her commitment to public service and her principled leadership on behalf of her constituents. She has a deep passion for who we are as Americans and for working to find the common ground to meet our nation’s challenges. Her inner strength and determination is serving her well as she struggles to recover. Reports from her doctors have been remarkably positive.

“My heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with Gabby, and all those injured, for a swift and full recovery, and I extend those thoughts and prayers to the family and friends of all the victims; Gabby’s staff; and all affected by this senseless shooting.

“I love this country deeply and the values we all share.

“It is my hope that our nation will come together to honor those who perished, and to affirm our commitment to move forward in a way that allows us to voice our differences, and debate the solutions to our challenges while respecting our shared love and dedication to our great nation.”