Expressing Sense of House Regarding Arizona Shooting
Floor Speech
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Mr. VAN HOLLEN. Madam Speaker, many of us have just come from a congressional prayer service for the victims of the terrible tragedy in Arizona where we sang ``Heal Us Now.''
We all know in this body that Gabby Giffords is one of our brightest lights: smart, fair, courageous, and considerate of people of all points of view. She is a very effective legislator and a caring and thoughtful friend. And the people of Arizona could not have a better representative in this United States Congress.
On Saturday, she was doing the job she loves so dearly and takes so seriously: meeting with her constituents and listening to their concerns when this senseless act of violence occurred.
We come together to grieve for those who were killed, including Gabby's talented and energetic outreach director, Gabe Zimmerman; to pray for the quick recovery of those injured; and to honor those who, in a moment of chaos and violence, took heroic actions that saved the lives of many, including Gabby.
Gabby Giffords is a person who is always thinking of others--her constituents, her staff, her colleagues. I spoke with her frequently during the very tough campaign she went through, and she was always just asking how were her colleagues doing. Today, in that same way, Gabby would want us to be thinking and praying for the others--for her fallen and injured constituents and for her heroic staff.
Gabe Zimmerman died doing what he loved, serving the people of Arizona. His many good works are a testament to the selfless works of public service performed by congressional staff every day for the people of our districts and our Nation.
Gabby Giffords has always conducted herself in a manner that brings honor on this people's House. She passionately advocates for the positions and issues she cares so deeply about but always in a way that is respectful of opposing views. She is a fierce competitor, but is always considerate of others.
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