President Obama just spoke publicly on the shooting of Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, saying that the full resources of the federal government have been offered to the state of Arizona in handling the situation. Furthermore, he asked all Americans to keep Giffords in their prayers.
“Gabrielle Giffords was a friend of mine. She is not only an extraordinary public servant, but she is also somebody who is warm, and caring, she is well liked by her colleagues, and well liked by her constituents,” said Obama. “Her husband, Mark Kelly, is a Navy captain and one of America’s valiant astronauts. It’s not surprising that today Gabby was doing what she always does – listening to the hopes and concerns of her neighbors. And this is the essence of what our democracy is all about.
[TPM SLIDESHOW: Dem Rep. Gabrielle Giffords Shot In Arizona]
“That is why this is more than a tragedy for those involved. This is a tragedy for Arizona and our entire country. What Americans do in a time of tragedy is to come together and support each other. So what I ask is for Americans to join me and Michelle in keeping all victims of this tragedy, including Gabby, in our prayers.”
Obama recognized that there have been other victims, including several who have been killed: “Obviously our hearts go out to the family members of those who have been slain. We are going to get to the bottom of this, and we are going to get through this. But I think in the meantime, all of us have to make sure that we are offering thoughts and prayers to those concerned.”
