Local politicians react to Giffords shooting (updated)

By Matthew Reichbach

Local politicians responded to the shooting of Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords, D-Ariz., and others in Arizona. Giffords survived the shooting but at least five others died, including federal judge John Roll.

Rep. Martin Heinrich, who represents New Mexico’s 1st Congressional District, said in a statement that Giffords has been “a tireless advocate for military families, and one of the most talented Democratic leaders of my generation.”

“While we do not yet have all the facts, an assassination attempt of this nature is an attack on our democratic process itself,” Heinrich’s statement continued. “My thoughts and prayers go out to her, her husband and family and to all the victims and their families.”

Rep. Ben Ray Luján, who represents New Mexico’s 3rd Congressional District, was “shocked and deeply saddened at the news” about Giffords.

“She is a dedicated public servant who cares deeply for the people of Arizona,” Luján said. “My thoughts and prayers are with Rep. Giffords and the family and friends of all those injured and killed in this heinous act.”

New Mexico Democratic Party chairman Javier Gonzales said in a statement, “I ask all New Mexicans to keep Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords, her family, staff and the victims of this tragedy in their thoughts and prayers as they struggle through this difficult time.”

Update, 4:18 p.m.

Sen. Tom Udall, who served with Giffords for two years in the House before becoming a Senator, said in a statement, “Today, she was answering her call to public service when these unspeakable acts of violence took place. Gabby, her staff and all of the victims of this horrific act are my family’s thoughts and prayers.”

Udall said that Giffords is “remarkably intelligent” and “a warm and compassionate individual.”

Update, 4:50 p.m.

“This is a tragic assault on Congresswoman Giffords, her staff and her constituents,” Sen. Jeff Bingaman said in a statement. “Like all Americans, I extend my sympathies to the families who lost loved ones in this tragedy, and hope that Congresswoman Giffords and everyone who was injured in this terrible incident can recover.”

Update, 4:55 p.m.

“This atrocious act is not only an attack on Gabrielle, but on the Constitution she has consistently labored to uphold, and the freedoms she fights to protect,” Rep. Steve Pearce said in a statement. “This is an attack on all Americans: our freedom of speech, our freedom to interact with a government who will listen.”

Pearce said he first got to know Giffords when both traveled to Iraq to visit troops in 2007.


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