[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 5 (Wednesday, January 12, 2011)]
[House]
[Pages H160-H200]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          EXPRESSING SENSE OF HOUSE REGARDING ARIZONA SHOOTING

  The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursuant to clause 1(c) of rule XIX, 
proceedings will now resume on the resolution (H. Res. 32) expressing 
the sense of the House of Representatives with respect to the tragic 
shooting in Tucson, Arizona, on January 8, 2011.
  The Clerk read the title of the resolution.
  The SPEAKER pro tempore. When proceedings were postponed earlier 
today, 4 hours and 6 minutes of debate remained on the resolution.
  The gentleman from California (Mr. Daniel E. Lungren) has 2 hours 
remaining, and the gentleman from Arizona (Mr. Pastor) has 2 hours and 
6 minutes remaining.
  Mr. DANIEL E. LUNGREN of California. Madam Speaker, I yield such time 
as she may consume to the gentlewoman from North Carolina (Mrs. 
Myrick).
  Mrs. MYRICK. I thank the gentleman for yielding the time.
  I think like everyone else who is here, I'm here today in support of 
this resolution, not only because it recognizes what happened in that 
tragic situation that just shocked and saddened all of us on Saturday, 
but I think most people in America were really just in a state of shock 
and not actually knowing what to do at that time when we saw what was 
happening, not just to our friend, Gabby Giffords, who is a friend with 
everyone here, but also to all of the other families that were touched 
by this.
  It goes so deep in the Tucson community when you look at the six 
people who gave their lives and the people who are still in the 
hospital fighting for their lives and all the heroes of that day. We 
keep hearing story after story after story of the heroes that emerged, 
just ordinary, everyday Americans who do what we do in situations like 
that. We don't think about ourselves, but we come forward to help the 
other person. And there were so many people like that who literally 
saved lives, Gabby's staff members, who were so heroic at this time, 
and just the shock that all of them I know are still going through. But 
I know that they are really heartened by the fact that most people in 
America are just reaching out to them, and people are saying, what can 
I do, how can I help, where can I be of service to this situation?
  And that's what we do in America is we come together. We pull 
together. We say, okay, we need to be Americans and Americans first. 
And I think that's what we're seeing out of this. And I just hope that 
we, throughout this country, can continue to maintain that feeling of 
goodwill toward one another, of wanting to help one another, of wanting 
to reach out to one another and wanting to work together no matter 
where we are in the country, because that's what makes us great.
  So our prayers and our support are with Gabby and with the others, 
and they will continue to be. The reports appear to continue to be 
good, which is so gratifying and so heartening to all of us. And we all 
look forward to the day when she's back here standing on this floor 
with the rest of us.
  Mr. PASTOR of Arizona. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the 
gentlewoman from Florida (Ms. Castor).
  Ms. CASTOR of Florida. I thank Mr. Pastor for yielding.
  Madam Speaker, on behalf of my community in Florida, the Tampa Bay 
area, I rise to honor my friend and colleague, Gabrielle Giffords, her 
staff and the other victims of the Arizona shooting tragedy. The arc of 
time of Congresswoman Giffords' service to her community and in the 
U.S. House so far has proven to be a time of change and challenge.

                              {time}  1400

  Through it all, Representative Giffords has been a model public 
servant. When we were sworn in 4 years ago, Congresswoman Giffords and 
I arrived as part of a class, Republican and Democrat, that had very 
high ideals. She was a leader from the very beginning. We adopted 
ethics reform. We bolstered veterans. We sought modern solutions for 
energy challenges. We helped more students attend college. And she, 
particularly, promoted scientific innovation.
  She sought a seat on the Armed Services Committee at a time when our 
country was struggling with the war in Iraq. She sought that seat 
because she wanted to ensure that the military personnel and the bases 
in her district had a champion--and did they ever.
  Congresswoman Giffords rose quickly to become a leader on solar 
energy and on immigration reform. Gabby works to strike a balance with 
pragmatic policies that actually work. And whether it was President 
Bush or President Obama, Congresswoman Giffords spoke up boldly for 
additional resources on the U.S. border.
  I know it sounds like a modern fairy tale, that a beautiful, smart 
congresswoman marries an astronaut, but a love of science and a love of 
their country brought them together. She was a champion for NASA and 
space exploration before she married Captain Mark Kelly, but she has 
become one of the greatest advocates for the mission of NASA.
  In 2007, our economy began to contract and people lost jobs, and 
Representative Giffords stood up to fight for them, for help for the 
Tucson area and for our great country. It has not been easy, but Gabby 
does not give up. As one of the more youthful Members of Congress, 
Congresswoman Giffords has served at a time when the first President of 
our generation was elected.
  The SPEAKER pro tempore. The time of the gentlewoman has expired.
  Mr. PASTOR of Arizona. I yield the gentlewoman an additional 15 
seconds.
  Ms. CASTOR of Florida. It is a time of hope and promise, but in the 
middle of a time of great economic challenge for Arizona, for Florida, 
and for all of America. But Gabby Giffords has an optimistic eye to the 
future. She believes that working together we can solve many of the 
challenges before us. And in her honor we must recommit to doing so.
  From the stories of the victims and the heroes in Tucson, it is 
obvious that it is a community composed of remarkable individuals. And 
it may explain why the Tucson area has sent such a remarkable public 
servant to represent them.
  Mr. DANIEL E. LUNGREN of California. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes 
to the gentleman from Louisiana, Dr. Fleming.
  Mr. FLEMING. I thank my friend from California.
  Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of House Resolution 32. Last 
week, in an act of cowardly violence, our friend and colleague, Gabby 
Giffords, was gunned down at a public event intended to give her 
constituents a forum to express their opinions. While our Nation 
honors, mourns, and remembers those hurt and killed in this senseless 
tragedy, it is imperative that we strengthen our resolve as public 
servants to not let these acts deter us from the important work we do 
and from who we are.
  America was founded on the idea that the people have direct access to 
their elected representatives, and as long as I serve, I plan to 
continue that tradition. As Speaker Boehner so eloquently put it, no 
act, no matter how heinous, must be allowed to stop us from our duty.
  Our thoughts and prayers are with Congresswoman Giffords, her family, 
and all those who suffered from last week's events.
  Finally, God bless Gabby Giffords. God bless the victims of this 
tragedy. God bless this institution. And God bless the United States of 
America.
  Mr. PASTOR of Arizona. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the 
gentleman from Minnesota (Mr. Ellison).

[[Page H161]]

  Mr. ELLISON. I thank the gentleman for yielding me this time.
  On behalf of the people of the Fifth Congressional District of 
Minnesota, let me offer my heartfelt condolences to those brave 
Americans who lost their lives in the tragedy at Tucson, and let me 
offer wishes of a very speedy recovery for those people who are 
wounded, including our own friend and colleague, Gabby Giffords. And 
also, let me offer congratulations to those heroic people who jumped up 
to help their fellow Americans at a time of tragedy and need.
  It would be very human for anyone to be a little bit shy about coming 
to a public event after hearing about a tragedy like this. But I think 
that in the spirit of Gabby Giffords, we should reaffirm and rededicate 
ourselves to public access, public engagement.
  I don't think it would be honoring her great work that she and we 
expect for her to carry on if we didn't get right back out there and 
engage in a spirited conversation about the shape and destiny of our 
democracy. And so I think it is important to make a very bold statement 
that we will reaffirm our dedication to having a robust, open access, 
and free democracy by not letting forces of fear and hatred, 
desperation and madness deter us from this very important and noble 
enterprise.
  God bless America, and we wait for and we look forward to a speedy 
recovery from our colleague, Gabrielle Giffords.
  Mr. DANIEL E. LUNGREN of California. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes 
to the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Neugebauer).
  Mr. NEUGEBAUER. Madam Speaker, I wish I didn't have to rise today in 
support of this resolution because it was a sad day for America last 
Saturday.
  But let me say this: On behalf of the people of the 19th 
Congressional District, whom I represent, we send our heartfelt 
condolences to the families and the friends and the loved ones of those 
who were killed in this senseless attack.
  We also offer our prayers for Gabby and the others who are making 
recovery from this act as well. You know, as I read through this 
resolution, and as many of you like I have been watching TV, Saturday 
was a bad day. It was a horrible day for America. Dana and I were in 
the grocery store shopping when I got the notice that my friend Gabby, 
our colleague Gabby, had been shot, along with others. It was terrible. 
As we have gotten an opportunity to watch over the last few days, what 
we learned is that out of this horrific act, we saw some of the things 
that make America great. We saw people tackle the attacker. We saw 
people offer assistance to Gabby and others. We saw a man shield his 
wife from the attacker. We saw the first responders do remarkable work 
in getting people to the hospital in what would be record time. We saw 
so many of the good things about America at a time when we saw one of 
the bad things.
  You know, as I was walking over here, I was thinking about Wednesday, 
I guess a week ago today, coming down on the elevator with Mark and 
Gabby and her parents. We had a wonderful visit. I have had an 
opportunity to serve on the Science Committee with Gabby. I went to 
lunch with her. She has a little interest in space, in case you didn't 
know it. And how sometimes we take for granted our friends and 
acquaintances and life itself, and how in just a moment life can 
change.
  So today we offer this resolution to recognize some good things about 
our country, to wish our good friend Gabby a complete recovery and to 
come back here, and we offer our thoughts and prayers for our country. 
God bless America.
  Mr. PASTOR of Arizona. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the 
gentleman from Maryland (Mr. Van Hollen).
  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.

                              {time}  1410

  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.
  The SPEAKER pro tempore. The time of the gentleman has expired.
  Mr. PASTOR of Arizona. I yield the gentleman an additional 30 
seconds.
  Mr. VAN HOLLEN. That is why she was such a good role model for 
Christina Taylor Green--the 9-year-old girl born on that terrible day 
of September 11, 2001, and who was gunned down on another awful day for 
our Nation.
  Christina Taylor Green, Gabe Zimmerman, and four others are, 
tragically, no longer with us. As we mourn their loss, we also pray for 
the full recovery of those who were injured.
  Gabby Giffords' light continues to shine, and she will continue to 
inspire young and old throughout Arizona and our Nation. God bless 
Gabby Giffords and all the victims of this horrible tragedy.
  Mr. DANIEL E. LUNGREN of California. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes 
to the gentlewoman from Missouri (Mrs. Emerson).
  Mrs. EMERSON. Madam Speaker, you know, we all get to know a person 
through the words of others. For our colleague Gabrielle Giffords and 
for everyone affected by the violence in Tucson, the outpouring of 
prayer and emotion really tells the story of how we are all touched by 
these sad events.
  I think all of us draw strength from one another in hearing the 
personal stories of relationships that they have had with Gabby, and it 
really does help us. I thought it would be important for us to also 
hear just a couple of stories, just a couple of sentiments, from some 
of Gabby's friends and supporters back home because they know Gabby, 
perhaps, in a little different way than we do.
  Carol Frazier writes, ``Many prayers and much love to you and all the 
victims of this stupid tragedy. Gabby, you are what we need in 
Congress. I was so impressed with meeting you--that you looked me in 
the eye and truly listened to what I was saying.''
  A high school friend, Erika Noebel, writes, ``Your entire UHS family 
is pulling for you. We just love you so much and are so proud to be 
your constituents.''
  Scott Smith writes, ``I hadn't even heard of you until this tragic 
event, Gabby, but you are in my thoughts, and I very much hope you pull 
through this, especially because you were doing your job talking to 
your constituents when this happened.''
  I think, like all of us here in the House of Representatives, Cathy 
Paredes expresses her sentiments best: ``Love you, Gabby. Stay strong. 
We are here for you.''
  God bless Gabby Giffords.
  Mr. PASTOR of Arizona. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the 
gentleman from Texas (Mr. Gonzalez).
  Mr. GONZALEZ. Madam Speaker, I am from San Antonio, and in my 
hometown, about a year and a half ago, a

[[Page H162]]

convenience store owner was murdered by a robber.
  The brother of the slain owner observed that both his brother and the 
murderer got up that same morning and made conscious choices: His 
brother chose to go to work and support his family--a right and a good 
thing. The murderer made a choice to rob and kill--an evil and a 
destructive thing.
  On January 8, 2011, in Tucson, many people got up that morning and 
made a choice to do the right and good thing. Only one person got up 
that morning and decided to do an evil and destructive thing.
  We cannot and will not allow the cruelty of one person to overshadow 
the goodness that each of his victims represents. We in this Chamber 
are not helpless. We offer our prayers for those who died and for a 
speedy recovery for those who have survived.
  And, to Gabby, I know we all join in saying: Hurry back. This House 
needs you. We love you.
  But we can do more. We can set an example that creates a fertile 
environment for constructive discourse that extends beyond the confines 
of this Capitol.
  Despite the heartache and the tragedy of last Saturday, we find 
solace and inspiration that, in our Nation, the United States of 
America, the goodness of the many will always triumph over the evil of 
the few.
  Mr. DANIEL E. LUNGREN of California. Madam Speaker, it is my pleasure 
to yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Mack).
  Mr. MACK. Madam Speaker, I rise today with sadness in my heart and a 
bit of anger about what happened in Tucson.
  I cannot help but think that, on that morning, a colleague of ours 
was doing what she enjoyed, doing what is expected of a Member of 
Congress--meeting with her constituents, talking about the important 
issues of the day. She went to work that morning, to the grocery store, 
to listen to her constituents. For someone to show up and pull the 
trigger is something that I don't think any of us will ever forget.
  I pray for Gabby. My thoughts and prayers go to all of the family 
members who have been affected by this tragedy.
  We hope and we cannot wait for that day when Gabby comes back to this 
floor--when she walks through that door, when she joins us again, when 
she casts a vote. Most importantly, though, I cannot wait to see that 
smile on her face. No matter who you are, whenever you met Gabby, she 
always greeted you with a smile, with kindness in her heart, with 
determination and strength.
  Gabby, we are praying for you. We pull for you. Our hearts and 
prayers are with you. You are missed, and we look forward to seeing you 
back on the floor of the House.
  Thank you and God bless you.
  Mr. PASTOR of Arizona. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the 
gentleman from Indiana.
  Mr. DONNELLY of Indiana. On behalf of all of the people of northern 
Indiana, we want to express our prayers and thoughts for the victims 
and the families of those killed and injured in Arizona.
  To the staff of Congresswoman Gabby Giffords, we want to thank you 
for your service to our country and for your sacrifice to our country.
  To my friend Gabby Giffords, who I came into Congress with in 2006, 
we love you and Mark. We miss you and Mark terribly. We are praying for 
your recovery. We know you are getting stronger every day, and we can't 
wait to see you back here in the House again in the very, very near 
future.
  May God bless you, and may God bless our beloved country.

                              {time}  1420

  Mr. DANIEL E. LUNGREN of California. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes 
to the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Olson).
  Mr. OLSON. I thank my colleague from California.
  Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of the resolution before the 
House and to pay tribute to my colleague and dear friend, Gabby 
Giffords. I have been privileged to call her a friend as the chairwoman 
of the Space and Aeronautics Subcommittee while I was the ranking 
member.
  We found that we share a deep passion for space and NASA, and we have 
worked closely on these issues together. In sitting in a hearing that 
Gabby was running with your eyes closed, you would be hard pressed to 
know who was the Republican and who was the Democrat. And as a freshman 
Member in Congress, it was heartening to know that while the 
controversial issues of the day may divide us, there is also room for 
collaboration and unity on both sides of the aisle. That was because of 
Gabby.
  I have no better bipartisan friend in the Congress than Gabby 
Giffords. Madam Speaker, she is warm and kind, but the Gabby I know is 
also tough. She will pull through this with her husband, Mark, by her 
side. I wouldn't bet against her.
  Other Members of our House family need our support too. I would like 
to say a prayer for Gabe Zimmerman and his family, Gabby's staffer who 
lost his life, as well as Ron Barber and Pam Simon, her other staffers 
who were victims in this horrible, horrible tragedy.
  We must also remember the others who lost their lives or were 
seriously injured. They are in our hearts and prayers as the Nation 
begins the healing process.
  Madam Speaker, I am going to close my remarks by talking to my friend 
as if she was here because in many ways she is.
  The SPEAKER pro tempore. The time of the gentleman has expired.
  Mr. DANIEL E. LUNGREN of California. Madam Speaker, I yield the 
gentleman an additional 30 seconds.
  Mr. OLSON. I thank my colleague from California.
  Gabby, I know you feel things and you hear things. When asked, you 
squeeze a hand, you hold two fingers up, and you hold a ``thumbs up.'' 
I know you feel the love and prayers of a Congress, a Nation, and a 
world that only wants you to have a full and speedy recovery. My 
friend, right back at you. I will see you when you get back in this 
Chamber.
  Mr. PASTOR of Arizona. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the 
gentlelady from Massachusetts (Ms. Tsongas).
  Ms. TSONGAS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to express my deep sympathy 
for the victims of the tragedy in Tucson, Arizona, this past Saturday. 
Like all of us, I mourn for the grievous harm that came to those who 
attended Congresswoman Giffords' Congress on Your Corner; for our 
colleague, Gabby, a courageous and conscientious lawmaker whose 
recovery and good health we all yearn for today; for a 9-year-old child 
bursting with innocent enthusiasm and great promise; for a respected 
jurist engaged in a simple act of friendship; for a kind and 
accomplished staffer; for a loving husband who instinctively shielded 
his wife from the rain of bullets, and for a husband, also lovingly 
protective, who was unable to stave them off; and, finally, a widowed 
retiree still giving to her community, all so abruptly and violently 
losing their lives; and for those who are thankfully recovering, all 
engaged in the abiding promise of democracy, coming to talk with their 
Congresswoman, gathering in the parking lot of a local supermarket on a 
Saturday morning.
  This horrific incident has raised many serious questions about 
appropriately identifying and caring for those who suffer from mental 
illness, about the accessibility of violent weapons, about the tone and 
language of our politics today, and about the solemn obligations of 
elected office in a democratic society--of those serving, of their 
staff, and of constituents eager to participate and be heard.
  But today we honor with our words those who tragically lost their 
lives and those harmed by this senseless act of violence. We pray for 
Gabby and all those still recovering; and we remember their families 
and loved ones now struggling with the immensity of their losses. In 
the days ahead, however, we must honor and remember them with our 
actions.
  Mr. DANIEL E. LUNGREN of California. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes 
to the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Meehan).
  Mr. MEEHAN. I want to thank my friend for yielding.
  Madam Speaker, I rise and join my colleagues--and in fact fellow 
citizens from across this Nation--in thought and prayer following the 
tragic assault on Gabby Giffords and 19 others in Tucson. I pray that 
in these critical

[[Page H163]]

hours Gabby Giffords will heal and begin the path to a fuller recovery.
  Just yesterday, I was privileged to join a large number of my 
freshmen colleagues as we went on a visit to the Walter Reed Army 
Hospital where we were humbled and inspired by the remarkable strength 
of severely injured military heroes who are fighting to recover from 
their wounds. I pray that Gabby Giffords will be provided with a 
similar resolve.
  I pray for those who lost their lives and the families of their loved 
ones who now struggle with grief. And I think particularly, having been 
a former prosecutor, of Judge John Roll, whose loss is being deeply 
felt by our colleagues in their public service from the judiciary. 
While this tragedy was not related to his duties per se, it is a 
reminder that our judges too often face threats that impinge on the 
independence that they must be accorded for our system of government 
and freedom and, just as importantly, justice, to prosper.
  Lastly, I want to express deep condolences to the family of Christina 
Taylor Green, whose grandfather, Dallas Green, is a member of the 
Philadelphia community. This tragic incident brought it home in a very 
personal way to the people of my region. Let us allow this horrible 
tragedy to inspire all Americans to become better instruments of peace.
  Mr. PASTOR of Arizona. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the 
gentlelady from California (Ms. Richardson).
  Ms. RICHARDSON. Madam Speaker, I concur in expressing the sense of 
the House of Representatives with respect to the tragic shooting in 
Tucson, Arizona, on January 8, 2011.
  Like all Americans, on Saturday morning I was not only saddened, but 
I was sick to my stomach while I watched the horrible attack against my 
colleague, my office mate for 2 years, Congresswoman Giffords--known as 
``Gabby'' to me--and her staff, her constituents, and all Americans.
  We know now that on January 8 Congresswoman Giffords reached out and 
sought ``new ways to reduce the highly partisan divisive tone that all 
too often dominates our public discourse.'' Today, I am going to do 
exactly that, not in words of criticism, but thoughts of observation 
and a desire to help.
  For lawmakers, whether Federal, State or local, this tragic incident 
must make us reevaluate our spending priorities and accept the fact 
that our continued failure to adequately fund mental illness is a 
mistake. For agencies, whether they be educational, military or private 
vendors and businesses, we must be diligent in connecting the dots and 
making use of good technology to have real-time information.
  For parents, whether your child, who will always be your child 
regardless of their age, should not be allowed under our own roofs to 
turn their rooms, garages or backyards into private areas where we're 
even afraid to tread. For protectors and preservers of the law, it's 
not okay to tell me that nothing is wrong with receiving an email that 
says, ``I'm concerned and looking for a good old-fashioned lynching.'' 
For those who debate and protest, it's not okay to spit, to say racial 
slurs, to say reload, or to arm, in reference to debate, and it's also 
not okay to say a group other than yourself is a Neanderthal and they 
want people to die quickly.

                              {time}  1430

  The SPEAKER pro tempore. The time of the gentlewoman has expired.
  Mr. PASTOR of Arizona. I yield the gentlelady an additional minute.
  Ms. RICHARDSON. For our courts, even in 1919 and 1931 in the cases of 
Schenk v. United States and Near v. Minnesota, our forefathers had the 
wisdom to know that the most stringent protection of free speech would 
not protect a man in falsely shouting ``fire'' in a theater and causing 
panic.
  So who would tell me that it would be appropriate that on August 17, 
2009, that it would be appropriate for a man to carry an AR-15 rifle 
and a pistol only feet from our President.
  And now, for those of us who are here today, we turn to the 
resolution on the floor.
  On page 4, sections 7 and 8, the resolution says that we would have 
the right of people to peaceably assemble and that all would 
participate without being silenced for fear of intimidation. I'm sad to 
say that, yes, even in this own Chamber on these grounds, I don't think 
we've always fulfilled those words of ``peaceable assembly free of 
intimidation.''
  We, too, must not react. But it's time to act, not just in 
legislation, but to do what Congresswoman Giffords asked us to do--to 
reduce the divisive tone in this country. Maybe if we start as leaders, 
others will follow.
  I express condolences. I pray for those on their recovery, and I also 
commit to work on this issue and to work with my colleagues.
  Mr. DANIEL E. LUNGREN of California. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes 
to the gentleman from New York (Mr. Gibson).
  Mr. GIBSON. I thank the gentleman for yielding.
  Madam Speaker, I rise today on behalf of the people in upstate New 
York to express our deepest condolences and sympathies to all of those 
affected by this horrific tragedy. We pray for those who lost their 
lives and for the recovery of those wounded in the attack.
  I first met Gabrielle Giffords many years ago at Cornell University 
where we were graduate students together in the mid-1990s. I did not 
know her well, but we shared mutual friends who always spoke of her in 
the kindest of terms. Last night I heard from one of Gabby's good 
friends, Colin Forth, and he shared the following:
  ``Gabrielle is a strongly principled person who, at Cornell, 
continually worked toward improvement, finding a way to reach a 
positive agreement. I found myself continually impressed with her 
ability to see workable solutions to issues, even when we did not agree 
on the issue. Gabby is fun, passionate, intelligent, highly competent, 
and focused. She is a person who turns words into action, something 
that should be valued now more than ever.''
  Gabby, Cornell prays for you, and the citizens of upstate New York 
are reaching out to all of those families affected by this senseless 
act of violence and praying that they may find peace, comfort, and 
healing.
  Mr. PASTOR of Arizona. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the 
gentlelady from California (Mrs. Davis).
  Mrs. DAVIS of California. I come here today shaken by an act of 
horrific proportions and yet heartened by bountiful acts of the human 
spirit. We are comforted that in these times, the pain and the shock 
can be lightened, if only temporarily, by knowing that the good 
overwhelms the bad. I think that is how Gabby would want us to reflect 
today.
  We grieve for the losses and the pain felt in the community of Tucson 
for ordinary people who we learned are quite extraordinary.
  We know the tireless efforts of our own staff who come to work every 
day with one goal in mind--to help people. That's why we mourn the loss 
of Gabe Zimmerman.
  But most of all, I come here today to send, in the most public way I 
can, my love and Mi Shebeirach--a Hebrew prayer for the sick which 
celebrates the spirit of healing to those recovering from their wounds, 
and particularly to my dear friend and colleague, Congresswoman 
Gabrielle Giffords.
  People beyond Gabby's district are learning about the political 
acumen of this talented and engaging leader. As public servants, we do 
our jobs by listening to the American people--by looking constituents 
in the eye, assuring them that we want to help, letting them know that 
we understand with a nod, a handshake, and most often a hug, as Gabby 
frequently was known to do. To have that important connection so shaken 
by the attempted assassination of our colleague and friend is 
devastating.
  But Gabby, of all people, was an example of what it means to be 
connected to your district. I know she wouldn't stand for this kind of 
violence, but she also wouldn't stand for allowing it to stop us from 
our service.
  Whenever she talked about her constituents, she prefaced it with, ``I 
really understand where they are coming from, and we need to solve this 
problem.''
  Her constituents are fortunate to have such a representative with 
such energy and skill who cares about them so deeply.
  The SPEAKER pro tempore. The time of the gentlewoman has expired.

[[Page H164]]

  Mr. PASTOR of Arizona. I yield the gentlelady an additional 30 
seconds.
  Mrs. DAVIS of California. She cares about their concerns, fears, and 
hopes and knows how to work with people from all political persuasions.
  My heart goes out to everyone affected by this massacre, and the 
shock from it reverberates throughout my community and our country.
  So I am listening to my constituents that hope that this tragedy will 
engage us anew in serious and civil discourse on how we can leave a 
better world for our children and our grandchildren. That is what Gabby 
strived to do daily. It is what she would want us to be doing right 
now.
  Mr. DANIEL E. LUNGREN of California. Madam Speaker, I yield 3 minutes 
to the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Shuster).
  Mr. SHUSTER. I rise today with a heavy heart to join my colleagues in 
support of this resolution and to honor the innocent Americans whose 
lives were so senselessly and tragically altered by the events in 
Tucson last week.
  Gabrielle Giffords was embodying the very essence of what it means to 
be an elected Representative in our great Republic by meeting and 
listening to her constituents last Saturday. Gabe Zimmerman, Ron 
Barber, and Pamela Simon were there, too, doing their jobs like 
thousands of other dedicated congressional staffers who support us and 
the work we do here every day in Washington and especially back in our 
districts.
  The Americans who lost their lives on Saturday and the innocent 
victims who were wounded were performing their civic duty to take an 
active role in their government, and among them were 9-year-old 
Christina Taylor Green and Pittsburgh native Judge John Roll.
  In our disbelief of the events last week, let us not forget the 
heroism of those who subdued the attacker preventing further loss of 
life. They put their own lives on the line to protect their neighbors. 
They represent the best of America and shine in our darkest hour.
  We will not allow this tragedy to weaken our resolve or to undermine 
the sacred responsibility that we as elected officials have to serve 
the people we represent. To allow this act of violence to keep us from 
our duties would be a disservice to the people we honor today, 
especially Gabby.
  Gabby was a friend of mine. We first became friends when I looked at 
her bio and realized that her family and she were operators and owners 
of a tire business just as my family was. So not only could Gabby and I 
talk policy, but we could talk tire; and there are few women that can 
talk tire like Gabby.
  Also, I served on the Armed Services Committee and got to know her 
very well. We traveled on two trips--one to Afghanistan and one to 
Iraq. It was the week before her wedding to Mark that we traveled, and 
she talked about looking forward to her marriage and to future trips. 
And just last week, we discussed going to Afghanistan again.
  So I look forward to Gabby's speedy recovery, for her return here to 
the House, and for that trip that we will take to Afghanistan to go 
greet our men and women in harm's way.
  May God bless Gabby. May God continue to bless the United States of 
America.
  Mr. PASTOR of Arizona. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the 
gentleman from Oregon (Mr. Blumenauer).
  Mr. BLUMENAUER. I appreciate the opportunity to come together to 
express our sorrow and support for our friend and colleague, Gabby 
Giffords, and the 19 other victims of this senseless rampage.
  I cherish the time I spent with Gabby in Tucson to promote the 
livability of her community. There I've seen firsthand the respect 
Congresswoman Giffords commanded from the entire civic leadership. I 
witnessed the emotional connection between Gabby and her political 
supporters. They knew that she was somebody special, and you could see 
that she treated each and every one of them the same way.

                              {time}  1440

  Then there is the bond between Gabby and her terrific team. It makes 
it so jarring, the loss of Gabe Zimmerman, the wounding of Rod Barber 
and Pam Simon of her office. Her outstanding staff is representative of 
the amazing men and women, over 10,000 in all, here on Capitol Hill and 
back home, who make the government process possible. They are like 
family, not just for Gabby. We must do all we can to protect the safety 
of staff and the employees who serve our country every day.
  Finally, this is about our relationship with Gabby and our 
responsibility to heal and repair. The path forward is illustrated by 
Gabby herself, the best example I know of someone who uses her 
intelligence, charm, passion, and commitment to bring people together. 
Then they can sort out the difficult issues that way, and move forward 
with the same good humor, skill, and results as Gabby. As she recovers, 
I hope we can honor her service and sacrifice by doing all that we can 
to restore that spark, that civility, and that commitment to civilized 
discourse.
  Madam Speaker, that's a tall order. Can we beat the odds? Our dear 
friend Gabby will show us how, as she is beating the odds right now. I 
am confident her recovery will be a triumph of her spirit, will, and 
intellect, and be a further inspiration to us all.
  Mr. DANIEL E. LUNGREN of California. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes 
to the gentleman from New York (Mr. Reed).
  Mr. REED. Madam Speaker, I rise today without a script, but to send 
my thoughts and prayers, and those of all of the thousands of people 
from my district, out to the Congresswoman's family, to the 
Congresswoman herself, and to all the families that were affected by 
such a tragic day in our Nation's history.
  We shall never forget what happened last Saturday. But as I walked 
into work today, and I saw the Sun breaking as it was coming up and 
shining on the dome of the Capitol, it was a glorious sight. Because 
what it reminded me is that even in our darkest days this Nation always 
will rise again. And as we stand here rightfully and pay our respects 
to our dear colleague and the families that suffered so much, and are 
suffering as we speak, let us not forget that this Nation will rise, 
and we will persevere.
  Mr. PASTOR of Arizona. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the 
gentlelady from New York (Mrs. McCarthy).
  Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. The great State of New York certainly 
sends their wishes and their prayers to the great State of Arizona. New 
York State went through a horror the same as Arizona is going through 
now. It's so parallel it's scary. Six killed, 20 injured, my husband 
dying, murdered, my son shot. But this is really a message of hope 
because my son did survive. Many of the victims survived.
  But I think the wonderful thing that needs to be out there are the 
prayers that came through from all parts of this country.
  Gabby's staff, you are suffering terribly. Those that have died, your 
families are suffering terribly. And those that have been wounded have 
to go through the pain to heal. What I will say to all of you, time 
will heal you. You will never forget, but time will make you smile 
again.
  Gabby would be so proud of this Chamber today. One of the things that 
Gabby is known for is how bipartisan she is. And she has brought this 
Chamber together. It's just a shame that a tragedy has to bring us all 
together. You know, Gabby's going to be fine, and she will be back 
here. And she'll be over there hugging people, talking to people. But 
that's what we as a Nation have to learn. We can disagree, but we need 
to work together. That is what Gabby wants, and that's what she'll push 
when she gets back here.
  So with that, the prayers of this Nation go to all. God bless our 
country, God bless the victims.
  Mr. DANIEL E. LUNGREN of California. Madam Speaker, I yield 3 minutes 
to the gentlelady from Ohio (Mrs. Schmidt).
  Mrs. SCHMIDT. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor our 
colleague Gabby Giffords and to mourn the loss of those that died in 
Tucson on Saturday, and to also pray for those who have been affected 
by this great tragedy, and to applaud the courage of those who risked 
their own lives so that others might live, and to thank the first 
responders and the

[[Page H165]]

health care professionals whose quick action and work saved their 
lives.
  You know, Madam Speaker, nobody ever thought Saturday would happen, 
especially Gabby. She was just out there doing her job. And when you 
think of the 20 families, and the community and the Nation, and how we 
have been affected by this act of violence, you think of the little 
girl that went there to meet her Congresswoman who never came home. You 
think about the person that took her, that wonderful neighbor who now 
will always think about what if I hadn't done this, what if I hadn't 
said would you like to come?
  Madam Speaker, there are so many people affected by this tragedy. And 
no one can ever understand the mind of a person that would do this 
random act of violence. But we as a Nation can come together. We can 
recognize the courage of those that helped stop him. We can recognize 
the courage of those that are fighting for their lives, especially our 
Gabby. We can pray especially that this Nation will never again see 
that kind of tragedy.
  And most importantly, Madam Speaker, we as a Nation--and I know 
people have said to me, well, what can we do? We as a Nation can pray. 
Get down on our knees every morning and every night. Pray for Gabby. 
Pray for her family. Pray for those folks that are suffering in the 
hospital. Pray for those moms and those dads and those brothers and 
those sisters and those aunts and those uncles and those grandparents 
that will never touch the family members again. Pray for Gabby's staff. 
Mourn the loss of her staffer. Mourn the loss of all six who perished. 
But most importantly, to pray that the folks that have been affected 
can have the courage to go on.
  You know, we had a prayer service. And Cantor Leon Sher wrote a 
beautiful song. And at the end of the song he says:
  We pray for healing of the people,
  We pray for healing of the land.
  And peace for every race and nation,
  Every child, every woman, every man.
  I don't think any words can sum up what we need to do here now today. 
So let us pray for Gabby that she comes back and she fights for what 
she believes in.
  I welcome her spirited debate and her smile and her Pollyanna point 
of view. But let us hope that all of those that have been touched by 
this tragedy can heal and heal in a short run. Thank you. God bless 
this country, and God bless all in it.
  Mr. PASTOR of Arizona. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the 
gentleman from Georgia (Mr. Bishop).
  Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. I thank the gentleman from Arizona for 
yielding.
  Madam Speaker, my wife, Vivian, and I were shocked and saddened to 
learn of the awful events in Tucson, Arizona, last Saturday. First and 
foremost, our prayers are with Gabby Giffords, her family, her staff, 
and the other victims of the senseless tragedy.
  Since she was first elected in 2006, Gabby Giffords has been one of 
the brightest lights in this Congress. I have gotten to know her 
personally in the Blue Dog Coalition, and she is my friend. I have been 
especially impressed by her intelligence, her warm personality, and her 
singular ability to bridge differences and bring people together. These 
qualities, and the fact that she was attacked while serving her 
constituents, make the situation all the more heartbreaking.
  In the book of Isaiah, it is written, ``Come let us reason 
together.'' Let us then take this opportunity to pause and reflect on 
the lives of the victims, the heroism of the first responders, and the 
bedrock principle of American democracy--reaffirmed in the resolution 
before us today--the right to assemble peacefully and to petition the 
government for the redress of grievances.

                              {time}  1450

  We must not let violence or the threat of violence deter us from 
representing our constituents and doing the Nation's business. God 
bless Gabby Giffords, the other injured, the families of those who were 
killed, the people of Arizona and the United States of America.
  Mr. DANIEL E. LUNGREN of California. Madam Speaker, it is my 
privilege to yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. 
Frelinghuysen).
  Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Madam Speaker, Saturday was indeed a grim day for 
our Nation. It was the day our beloved colleague, Gabrielle Giffords, 
was attacked while doing her job listening to her constituents. It was 
Gabby herself who aptly said just last year that the term 
``representative'' is more of a job ``description'' than a job 
``title.''
  As we all work to represent our constituents and our States and 
Nation, the Speaker is correct when he said that ``an attack on one who 
serves is an attack on all who serve.'' Last weekend, Gabby's efforts 
to serve her constituents brought her staff, herself and her 
constituents into a line of fire from a deranged man who shot 21 
defenseless, innocent citizens.
  Six people died and many were wounded. Phyllis Schneck was a 79-year-
old native of New Jersey who lived during the summer on Old Lake End 
Road in the Green Pond section of Rockaway Township in my congressional 
district. She was one of those. Mrs. Schneck and her late husband, 
Ernie, lived for years in Towaco, and they were active members of the 
Oak Ridge Presbyterian Church. She was a member of the Montville 
Women's Club. She was a mother, grandmother and great grandmother. 
Hers, as were the others, were lives well lived.
  Madam Speaker, our minds reel from Saturday's violence. Our hearts 
ache for those slain and injured and their families and friends. 
However, as is so often the case when an act of random cruelty 
bewilders and depresses us, exceptional displays of generosity, courage 
and heroism can serve as a potent counterweight. These acts are a 
reminder of the extraordinary selflessness that people are capable of.
  Let's remember and salute those acts today. Mark and Gabby, we are 
thinking of you. We are behind you all the time. We love you.
  Mr. PASTOR of Arizona. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the 
gentlelady from Ohio (Ms. Kaptur).
  Ms. KAPTUR. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of the resolution and 
join my dear colleagues and on behalf of the people of northern Ohio, 
who join citizens across our Nation in pouring out compassion and 
healing to the families and citizens of Arizona who have been so harmed 
and wounded at liberty's doorstep, the U.S. House of Representatives.
  Let our prayers and comfort flow to the victims, to the healers, to 
those who must carry forward with full memory and understanding of what 
has transpired and why. Let us strive to do and to be so much better as 
a people. Our collective feeling of brotherly and sisterly love and the 
unity that flows from it holds the power to heal.
  We all feel that desire. Our constituents feel that desire. 
Congresswoman Gabby Giffords, our beloved colleague, is fighting to 
show us the way forward. We pray for her and her family. We pray for 
all victims and their families. We pray for all those who are taking 
this difficult journey with them.
  What a remarkable young woman Gabby is. She represents the highest 
aspirations of America. She is kind, talented, highly motivated, 
effervescent and so in love with her husband, Mark. We know Gabby is a 
fighter and so very enjoyable to be with.
  We embrace her, her family, her staff with the same affection as 
would she. And if Gabby were able at this moment, we know she would be 
embracing the victims of the fallen and their loved ones.
  This is a moment for America to take stock of itself. No one should 
have to endure what these citizens have had to endure. Frankly, no one 
should have had to endure the mean-spirited and inciteful political 
campaigns Gabby did.
  In the sweep of history, this attack was an attack on liberty. It 
desecrates our worth as a people. We must all search our souls. How 
could such a heinous act transpire?
  The SPEAKER pro tempore. The time of the gentlewoman has expired.
  Mr. PASTOR of Arizona. I yield the gentlelady an additional 30 
seconds.
  Ms. KAPTUR. If the evidence shows that unaddressed mental illness, 
coupled with guns and disturbing Internet postings were contributing 
factors, as when two Capitol Police officers were gunned down just a 
decade ago outside

[[Page H166]]

this Chamber, then Congress must finally, finally engage that which to 
date it has been unwilling to fully embrace and understand. When human 
tragedy falls at your knees, do you look away, or do you stoop to pick 
up the pieces and ask why? Why?
  May God bless America. May the campaigns of 2012 be conducted in a 
manner that brings credit to our Nation's highest aspirations, mindful 
of the suffering that has occurred. And may God give America and her 
leaders and her people great wisdom in the days ahead.
  Mr. DANIEL E. LUNGREN of California. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes 
to the gentlewoman from Illinois (Mrs. Biggert).
  Mrs. BIGGERT. Madam Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart to 
express my condolences to the families and loved ones of Congresswoman 
Gabrielle Giffords, her staffer, Gabe Zimmerman, and all the victims of 
last Saturday's shooting.
  Like all my colleagues here today, I have struggled to make sense out 
of this horrible tragedy since first hearing the news that our good 
friend and colleague had been viciously attacked. As I watched the news 
and learned about the innocent lives that had been cut short, it became 
painfully clear to me that nothing will ever be able to explain such an 
atrocity.
  Politics is the art of genteel disagreement. Actions like those we 
witnessed last Saturday have no place, no excuse, no explanation, nor 
rationalization in our democratic system.
  What I do know is that Gabby is fighting hard for her life, fighting 
with the same tenacity that fueled her passion for public service, and 
I take comfort in the knowledge that my friend is winning that battle.
  Like Gabby, we must never stop fighting for our great democracy and 
the time-honored traditions that keep it strong. Neither we nor our 
constituents, all 300-plus million of them, will be intimidated by the 
violent actions of the few.
  As Americans, we will come together and mourn for those who lost 
their lives that day, and we will honor the survivors and heroes of 
this tragedy that stood strong together in the face of madness.
  Madam Speaker, I join all my colleagues here today to express my 
support for this resolution, and I know I speak for all of my 
constituents in the 13th District of Illinois when I say that we share 
in the loss of our friends from Arizona, and our thoughts and prayers 
are with their families at this difficult time.
  Mr. PASTOR of Arizona. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the 
gentleman from Missouri (Mr. Clay).
  Mr. CLAY. I thank the gentleman from Arizona for yielding.
  Madam Speaker, I rise in support of this bipartisan resolution and to 
offer my thoughts and prayers for the swift healing and complete 
recovery of my friend and colleague, Congresswoman Gabby Giffords.
  In addition to the dedicated members of her staff who were also 
wounded and all of the other innocent victims of this unconscionable 
act of violence, I want to express my sincere sympathies to the 
families of U.S. District Court Judge John Roll, Gabe Zimmerman, a 
valued member of our congressional family, Dorwan Stoddard, Dorothy 
Morris, Phyllis Schneck and most especially Christina Taylor Green, a 
remarkable 9-year-old child who had just won her first election to the 
student council and wanted to speak to her Congresswoman about a career 
in public service.
  Madam Speaker, as Speaker Boehner so aptly noted just moments after 
this tragedy occurred, an attack on one who serves is an attack on all 
who serve. I would venture to say that all of us who have the high 
honor of serving in this body, the people's House, have searched our 
souls to try to understand the nature of this attack on the very core 
of our democracy.
  Like most of us, Congresswoman Giffords knows that there is simply no 
substitute for spending time with your constituents. The plain truth is 
that you cannot effectively represent your community in Congress unless 
you make time to interact with the people who hired you for this job.
  And as for me, I will continue to do that because I truly believe 
that even in the face of this kind of mindless violence, constituents 
have a right to question their Members of Congress directly. And we, 
who have been entrusted with the honor of public service, must never 
allow fear or threats to undermine that fundamental principle.

                              {time}  1500

  Mr. DANIEL E. LUNGREN of California. Madam Speaker, so we may be able 
to equalize the remaining time, I reserve the balance of my time.
  Mr. PASTOR of Arizona. I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from 
Pennsylvania (Mr. Altmire).
  Mr. ALTMIRE. On behalf of the Fourth Congressional District of 
western Pennsylvania, I rise to pay tribute and offer our deepest 
sympathy and condolences to the 20 victims of the tragedy in Tucson. 
And as a member of the class of 2006, I grew to know Gabby quite well, 
and we look forward to the day, hopefully very soon, when she will join 
us back here in this Chamber. And I know her well enough to know that 
her first priority on a day like today would be to honor the 19 
constituents who were taken and affected by this tragedy, especially 
the six who lost their lives.
  So it is in that spirit that I honor, and we all honor in this 
Chamber, 63-year-old U.S. district judge John Roll, a Pittsburgh 
native, an active Catholic parishioner; 9-year-old Christina Green, a 
Pennsylvania native, third grader who had already told her parents she 
was looking forward to a career in public service and attending 
college, she hoped and said, at Penn State; 30-year-old Gabe Zimmerman, 
Gabrielle's staffer, newly engaged, master of social work, who 
dedicated his life to public service; 79-year-old Phyllis Schneck, New 
Jersey native, church volunteer, loved cooking and spending time with 
her family; 76-year-old Dorwan Stoddard, devout Christian, survivor of 
17 heart stents, who died saving the life of his wife, a grade school 
friend; and 76-year-old Dorothy Morris. We pay tribute to them all, and 
we thank them for their service to this country.
  And we will not let this attack deter us from carrying on the 
business of the American people and engaging in civil discourse in our 
representative democracy.
  Mr. PASTOR of Arizona. Madam Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the 
distinguished gentleman from Washington (Mr. Larsen).
  Mr. LARSEN of Washington. Madam Speaker, what does the Lord require? 
Do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with God. These words from the 
prophet Micah are as true today as they were when first spoken. They 
provide guidance to how we in Congress can lead by example for everyone 
in this country as we try to come to terms with the tragedy in Arizona.
  We can work with each other with justice, with mercy and humility in 
our hearts. When Micah said these words, they were guidance. Today they 
are a plea. And I know that we can heed these words.
  Madam Speaker, I ask that we keep all the victims and the families of 
this tragedy in our prayers, and I especially ask that we keep Gabby in 
our hearts.
  Mr. DANIEL E. LUNGREN of California. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes 
to the gentleman from Colorado (Mr. Coffman).
  Mr. COFFMAN of Colorado. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of 
House Resolution 32.
  I had the opportunity to work with Representative Gabrielle Giffords 
over the last 2 years on the House Armed Services Committee, and I have 
always admired the gentlelady from Arizona for her dedication to her 
constituents and to our Nation.
  This resolution before us today condemns in the strongest possible 
terms the horrific attack which occurred last Saturday in Tucson, 
Arizona. This resolution offers the heartfelt condolences to the 
families, friends, and loved ones of those who were killed in that 
attack. It expresses a hope for the rapid and complete recovery of 
those wounded in the shootings. It applauds the bravery and quick 
thinking exhibited by those who prevented the gunman from potentially 
taking more lives. It recognizes the service of the first responders to 
race to the scene, and the health care professionals who tended to the 
victims.
  This resolution stands firm in the belief in a democracy in which all 
can

[[Page H167]]

participate and in which intimidation and threats of violence cannot 
silence the voices of any American.
  This resolution honors the service and leadership of Representative 
Gabrielle Giffords, a distinguished Member of this House, as she 
courageously fights to recover.
  Madam Speaker, when adjourning today, let us do so out of respect for 
the victims of this attack.
  Mr. PASTOR of Arizona. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the 
distinguished gentlewoman from Ohio (Ms. Sutton).
  Ms. SUTTON. Madam Speaker, we know Gabrielle Giffords as a colleague 
and a friend, a member of our congressional class of 2006, the majority 
makers. She is an outstanding public servant whose sole and constant 
commitment is to help make her district and our Nation as great as it 
can be.
  The shooting that has left Gabby fighting to recover and that has 
claimed the lives of her outreach director, Gabe Zimmerman, and five 
other innocent victims was horrific and stunning. Our thoughts and 
prayers go out to Gabby, her husband, Mark, and their family and to all 
of the victims and their families.
  In recent days the Nation has learned much about Gabby and her 
commitment to kindness and service. We've learned also of other 
extraordinary Americans present on that day. We learned of Christina 
Taylor Green, a child full of grace born on 9/11, taken away far too 
soon but who will be remembered always not only by her beautiful 
family, but by a grieving Nation that glimpsed her spirit, leaving her 
goodness impressed forever on our collective memory.
  America has learned of Gabe Zimmerman, a faithful public servant who 
used his life to make a difference in his country and for his 
community; and of Judge Roll, husband and father, committed to justice 
and the rule of law; of Dorothy Morris, beloved wife of George Morris, 
who also was critically wounded as he tried to shield her from the 
bullet; and of Phyllis Schneck, loving mother of three and beloved 
grandmother of seven; and of Dorwan Stoddard, who acted with great love 
in giving his life to save his wife.

  We remember these extraordinary people and the others who were 
injured, and we remember the heroes who came to the aid of fellow 
citizens, these ordinary yet great Americans reflecting the best of our 
Nation and its citizenry. And we join together today to condemn this 
violent rampage.
  But let us also join together to express our appreciation for those 
who offered themselves up in service, like Gabby, Gabe and Judge Roll, 
and all who were there participating in our representative Republic. 
Let us reach out one to another in common purpose. It has been said, 
God has not called us to see through each other, but to see each other 
through. Let it be so.
  Mr. DANIEL E. LUNGREN of California. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes 
to the gentleman from Virginia (Mr.  Goodlatte).
  Mr. GOODLATTE. Madam Speaker, I am shocked and saddened by the 
senseless act of violence that occurred Saturday against Congresswoman 
Gabrielle Giffords, her staff and members of the Tucson community. Just 
2 days before this horrific attack, Gabby joined me and many other 
Members of Congress in reading aloud the U.S. Constitution on the House 
floor. It was my honor to yield to Gabby to read the First Amendment. 
And on Saturday, she and those participating in her Congress on the 
Corner event were exercising their First Amendment freedoms of free 
speech and to peaceably assemble.
  It is unconscionable that anyone would take violent action to deprive 
someone of their life and liberty. Our thoughts and prayers are with 
Gabby, her family, her staff and others who were affected by Saturday's 
tragic events in Tucson. While this tragedy serves as an unfortunate 
reminder of evil actions, it must also remind us of the good in people 
as we hear the stories of the heroes of that day, people who gave their 
lives, people who saved other lives.
  We as Members of Congress cannot allow this senseless act of violence 
that occurred against Congresswoman Giffords to deter us from our jobs 
or deter the American people from exercising their precious freedoms.

                              {time}  1510

  I read again the words that Ms. Giffords read on the floor on 
Thursday.
  Amendment I: ``Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment 
of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the 
freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people 
peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of 
grievances.''
  Madam Speaker, I don't know if Ms. Giffords spoke on the floor after 
that. Those may have been the last words she uttered on the floor of 
the House. I join my colleagues in praying that we will see her again 
on this floor exercising her precious freedoms.
  God bless her and all of the victims of this tragedy.
  Mr. PASTOR of Arizona. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the 
gentleman from Utah (Mr. Matheson).
  Mr. MATHESON. Madam Speaker, on Saturday morning in Tucson, it 
started out in a very good way. It started out with a number of people 
who wanted to engage in one of the great American traditions, a 
tradition of our government which is that we have a discussion of 
ideas. That is what America is about, a competition of ideas. And so we 
had Congresswoman Giffords and we had her staff and we had members of 
the community gather. That is a positive start to that day. Of course 
that positive start was destroyed by the tragic acts which have been 
recounted by so many on the floor.
  We all step back in shock and horror and sadness at what took place 
in Tucson. It is an attack on the individuals that clearly affects all 
of their lives. It is also an attack on what this country is about. It 
is important that as we hope and pray for the recovery of the victims, 
and we hope and pray for understanding for the families of the victims, 
and we mourn the loss of those who perished that day, it is important 
that we also recognize that they were great Americans who were there to 
exercise their right of assembly, and the great American tradition 
which represents what this government is all about, which is we can sit 
down and have discussions. We can disagree with each other. It is okay 
to disagree with each other. That is the strength of this country. That 
is the idea behind America, that we have the opportunity to look for 
the best ideas from wherever they come.
  When it comes to public service, it would be good for all of us to 
recognize the ideals of our colleague, Gabby Giffords. She was a good 
friend, a good colleague, someone who had the right ideas and 
motivations when she first got to Congress, and continues to represent 
those motivations. She is someone who is smart, articulate, looking to 
solve problems, and someone who knew how to be compassionate for her 
constituents.
  I think everybody in this well probably knows a story where Gabby 
talked to them about her constituents in Tucson and an issue that 
mattered to her. That is what impresses me about Representative 
Giffords. It is a model that I think we can all remember and continue 
to follow as we do our best for our constituents.
  Madam Speaker, I close by saying I wish all the best to the families, 
the victims, and our thoughts and prayers are with them.
  Mr. DANIEL E. LUNGREN of California. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes 
to the gentleman from South Carolina (Mr. Duncan).
  Mr. DUNCAN of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, let me preface my 
remarks by saying I barely know Gabby. As a freshman Member of the 
House, I was sworn in last week with a lot of colleagues I hope to get 
to know over the coming days. But I rise today in concert with my 
friends and colleagues on both sides of the aisle to express the 
sadness and grief that all in our country feel over the loss of life in 
Tucson this past weekend.
  The citizens of South Carolina mourn with our Nation, and we lift up 
in prayer the family and friends of the victims in Arizona. Much of the 
coverage and attention has been centered around our wounded colleague, 
Gabby. My family and I join in praying for her healing, and for the 
others who have been wounded.
  I also want to celebrate the lives of the six who were lost: 9-year-
old Christina Taylor Green, an inspiration to us

[[Page H168]]

all; Judge John Roll; congressional staffer Gabriel Zimmerman; Pastor 
Dorwan Stoddard; Dorothy Morris; and Phyllis Schneck.
  While we mourn their loss, we also remember what they meant to their 
families, their friends, and to their communities. I join with all of 
my fellow Americans in honoring their lives and in praying that God's 
comfort may rest upon their families. May God bless them and may He 
continue to bless America.
  Mr. PASTOR of Arizona. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the dean 
of the Congress, the distinguished gentleman from Michigan (Mr. 
Dingell).
  (Mr. DINGELL asked and was given permission to revise and extend his 
remarks.)
  Mr. DINGELL. I thank my dear friend for yielding me this time.
  Madam Speaker, I rise, as do all of my colleagues, with sincere 
condolences to the families who lost loved ones in the horrific events 
of last Saturday. The victims amongst them were a young student, a 
number of congressional staff members, one of our dear friends and 
colleagues who has served with distinction and remarkable ability and 
grace, and an outstanding Federal judge.
  During my career in Congress, I have witnessed horrific events: the 
assassinations of President Kennedy and Martin Luther King and Robert 
Kennedy. I have seen firsthand anger brought on by landmark life-
changing legislation such as the civil rights bill. Like other Members, 
I have found the current state of affairs is also somewhat new to me.
  One of my colleagues, as we were going to the memorial service, 
observed to me that he had as a judge sent large numbers of people off 
to jail, but he had never been as concerned about his own personal 
safety and that of his family as he is today. Our Founding Fathers 
wanted our system of government to be a vigorous one, full of 
enthusiastic and vibrant debate. But I don't believe that they wanted 
to see the kind of debate and discussion that we are seeing both in 
this place and in other places of public assembly.
  I want to read a few of the statements that I have seen that I find 
to be pretty awful. Here is one:
  ``People are really looking toward those Second Amendment remedies 
and saying, my goodness, what can we do to turn this country around? 
I'll tell you, the first thing we need to do is to take (blank) out.'' 
That blank is for the name of the person.
  The next one: ``I want people in (blank) armed and dangerous on this 
issue of the energy tax because we need to fight back.''
  ``I want to kill (blank) with a shovel.''
  ``Every night I get down on my knees and pray (blank) will burst into 
flames.''
  ``Our Nation was founded on violence. The option is on the table. I 
don't think that we should ever remove anything from the table as it 
relates to our liberties and our freedoms.''
  ``Don't retreat, reload!''
  The SPEAKER pro tempore. The time of the gentleman has expired.
  Mr. PASTOR of Arizona. I yield the gentleman an additional 30 
seconds.
  Mr. DINGELL. I thank the gentleman.
  I would observe, we saw the district of Gabrielle Giffords had 
crosshairs put on it. As a lifetime rifleman and shooter, I know what 
crosshairs signify when you put them on somebody, and I know what 
happened.
  One other quotation: ``If ballots don't work, bullets will.''
  So here we have a denigration of the great debate and the system of 
government of ours where threats are made. Members of this body have a 
duty to speak out, as do members of the media who have been saying 
these kinds of things and leading us into a time when we create a 
threat not just to the lives and well-being of our Members but also to 
the lives and well-being of this country and its debates.
  Mr. DANIEL E. LUNGREN of California. Madam Speaker, I yield myself 
such time as I may consume.
  Madam Speaker, last week Gabby Giffords did speak the words of the 
First Amendment here on the floor. They talk about the right of 
citizens of the United States to come and plead their case to their 
Members of Congress and to seek the redress of their grievances. I 
think our Founding Fathers anticipated that we would be involved in 
robust and vigorous debate, but they also hoped that we would utilize 
some sense of civility as we did so.
  I would like to read an e-mail that I received in my office from a 
constituent that I think would bring a smile to the lips of Gabby 
Giffords, and it responds in some way to what the gentleman from 
Michigan has just said.
  These are those words:
  ``Dear Representative Lungren: I write to share with you my feelings 
upon hearing the news of the terrible shooting in Tucson, Arizona. I 
find I am overwhelmed by emotions. In the past, and I suspect in the 
future, I have disagreed with you on many of the political things that 
you have said and done. I have voted against you. I have even felt and 
expressed frustration and anger about you. I wish now to state that if 
unlikely circumstances arose and I were in a position to protect you 
from physical attack, I would do whatever I possibly could to preserve 
your safety and your person at whatever risk to myself.

                              {time}  1520

  ``Our democracy and freedom cannot survive if elected officials feel 
threatened and find themselves having to consider their physical safety 
as they make the decisions and fill the responsibilities of office. 
Please continue to do your job as a Member of Congress as best you can. 
I will continue to disagree with you when and as needed. I am just one 
man, but all of us citizens can only do what we can do.
  ``I, for one, will never threaten, encourage or resort to any 
violence whatsoever while debating, disputing, and arguing politics. 
For whatever tiny weight I count for in the great sea of Americans, I 
want you to feel safe from any harm.
  ``Make your decisions, and vote your votes in Congress--please try 
and not be such an idiot Republican about it--and know that you are 
safe in the Third District for all of your life if I shall have any say 
in the matter.
  ``Thanks for all the work that you do. Most sincerely . . . ''
  That's a message that I know Gabby would want us to embrace and one 
that would not only give her resolve but would, hopefully, attract her 
sense of humor as well.
  I reserve the balance of my time.
  Mr. PASTOR of Arizona. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the 
gentlewoman from Ohio (Ms. Fudge).
  Ms. FUDGE. I thank the gentleman for yielding.
  Madam Speaker, it is with a heavy heart I stand today to support this 
resolution and to encourage Congresswoman Gabby Giffords, her family 
and all victims of the Arizona shooting. I am in prayer for their well-
being, their healing and their peace.
  Gabby and I served together on the Science and Technology Committee, 
and we lived in the same DC apartment building. I learned of her 
passion for people and for her commitment to service. In her honor, I 
call for a return to compassion and an abandonment of hate-laden 
rhetoric.
  Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., said, ``Returning violence for violence 
multiplies violence, adding deeper darkness to a night already devoid 
of stars. Darkness cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.''
  If I could speak directly to the American people, I would ask them to 
combat this great darkness with love, not with fear. I would ask them 
to combat this great darkness with a tide of hope and faith and 
perseverance and to understand our unity.
  Mr. DANIEL E. LUNGREN of California. I reserve the balance of my 
time.
  Mr. PASTOR of Arizona. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the 
gentleman from Missouri (Mr. Carnahan).
  Mr. CARNAHAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize and lift up in 
our prayers my friend and colleague from Arizona, Congresswoman Gabby 
Giffords; the dedicated public servants on her staff and the citizens 
engaged in the most fundamental practice of our American democracy--
meeting with their Representatives at a Congress on Your Corner public 
event. In the aftermath of this horrific attack, we have learned a lot 
about the lives and actions of the victims and heroes of last Saturday. 
They reflect the very best of America.

[[Page H169]]

  Gabby not only spoke out regarding the importance of government by 
the people, but she lived it every day. Last week, I sat here on this 
floor of the House, in line with Gabby and our colleagues, as we read 
the U.S. Constitution. The section that she read from this very podium 
was the First Amendment, which protects the right of the people to 
peaceably assemble and to petition the government for a redress of 
grievances.
  I remember thinking to myself what an ideal section for Gabby to read 
because of her great example as an engaged public servant and as truly 
being a Representative who stays close to the people.
  This resolution before us today is necessary and appropriate but, by 
itself, will not be long remembered. What will be remembered is our 
resolve, our unified national resolve, to stand against extreme and 
divisive rhetoric and against building barriers between citizens and 
their Representatives that would weaken our democracy and diminish our 
way of life. An attack on one citizen, while engaging in our 
representative democracy, is an attack on all citizens and the very 
foundation of our democracy.

  Let us resolve, in honor of all the victims in Tucson, that every 
Representative and every citizen continue to meet on corners across 
America to work through our differences, to find common ground and to 
make progress working together.
  To Gabby and every person impacted by this tragedy, we resolve today 
to always be in your corner.
  Mr. DANIEL E. LUNGREN of California. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes 
to the gentleman from Ohio (Mr. Latta).
  Mr. LATTA. I thank the gentleman for yielding.
  Madam Speaker, I rise on this sad day to join my colleagues in 
recognizing the lives of those affected by the horrible tragedy in 
Tucson, Arizona, this past weekend.
  As we reflect on this tragic event, the one thing that must be 
remembered is that our colleague from Arizona, Congresswoman Giffords, 
was simply doing her job, a job that she loves to do. Meeting with her 
constituents and providing them with assistance is the basic duty of 
any Member of Congress. The best and only way for Members of Congress 
to carry out their oaths is to be with, listen to, and see what our 
constituents are experiencing. The nameplates on the front of our 
offices read ``Representative.'' Congresswoman Giffords was doing just 
as we do day in and day out--representing our citizens at home and here 
in Washington.
  The loss of life and injury suffered by the victims will always be 
remembered by this body. Whether it was Federal Judge John Roll; Gabe 
Zimmerman, Congresswoman Giffords' staff member; or 9-year-old 
Christina Taylor Green, all of those who lost their lives or who were 
injured will hold a special place in our hearts, thoughts, and prayers.
  We cannot let this random act of heinous violence deter us from our 
duty to serve our constituents, and I know we will move forward 
together as a stronger united House.
  Mr. PASTOR of Arizona. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the 
gentlewoman from Pennsylvania (Ms. Schwartz).
  Ms. SCHWARTZ. Madam Speaker, last Saturday in Tucson and across the 
country, so many Americans, including myself, were horrified and deeply 
saddened by the mass shooting at a congressional outreach event hosted 
by U.S. Representative Gabrielle Giffords. The senselessness, the 
violence and the magnitude of death and injury were stunning and 
alarming.
  It is a personal tragedy. It is a national tragedy. It is 
heartbreaking and wrenching because we all share in the pride of our 
representative democracy. Members reaching out to their constituents 
and constituents having the opportunity formally and informally to talk 
to their Representatives of Congress is at the core of our 
responsibilities and is a value we all hold as Americans. So 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 who were 
killed. My thoughts and my deepest sympathies are with them and with 
their loved ones.
  And, to Gabby, Gabby is our colleague and she is our friend. I share 
in acknowledging and honoring 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 that common 
ground to meet our Nation's challenges. Her inner strength, 
determination, and her good spirit are all serving her well as she 
struggles to recover from her wounds. Reports from her doctors have 
been remarkably positive.
  So my heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with Gabby and with all 
those injured, and I wish them swift and full recoveries. I extend 
those thoughts and prayers to her husband, Mark; to all the families 
and friends of the victims; to Gabby's staff; and to all those 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 to debate the solutions to our challenges while 
respecting our shared love and dedication to our great Nation.
  Mr. DANIEL E. LUNGREN of California. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes 
to the gentleman from Arkansas (Mr. Griffin).

                              {time}  1530

  Mr. GRIFFIN of Arkansas. I thank the gentleman for yielding me time.
  Madam Speaker, I rise today in memory of the victims and in support 
of my colleague from Arizona, her staff, the loved ones of the victims, 
and those who bravely and skillfully responded to the attack.
  My freshmen colleagues and I have only been here for a few short 
days, but in Representative Giffords we see the temperament and 
dedication needed to be good representatives of the people. She 
embodies these qualities and is an example for everyone here in the 
people's House.
  Let us not forget the personal side of this tragedy. Those lost 
include two dedicated public servants, a devoted great-grandmother and 
a loving wife, a heroic husband whose last action was protecting his 
wife, and a 9-year-old interested in public service. They will all be 
missed.
  In the wake of this tragedy, we find solace and we find power in 
prayer. My prayers are for the families of the victims, for the speedy 
recovery of Congresswoman Giffords and all others who were wounded. I 
pray for law enforcement investigating this cowardly attack. I pray for 
the medical workers, that their work heals those who have been injured. 
I pray for this House, its leaders, fellow Members and their staffs. 
And I pray for our country, asking God for His blessings during this 
time of grief.
  This attack hits each of us in a personal way, but we must resolve to 
move forward, representing the men and women who sent us here to do our 
Nation's work.
  Mr. PASTOR of Arizona. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the 
gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Payne).
  (Mr. PAYNE asked and was given permission to revise and extend his 
remarks.)
  Mr. PAYNE. Madam Speaker, I rise to express my sincere condolences to 
the families of the victims of this senseless tragedy and to the family 
of our colleague, Congresswoman Gabby Giffords. I hope and pray for her 
quick recovery. And to the people of the Eighth Congressional District 
of Arizona, we know what you're going through: the life of a 9-year-old 
who wanted to be a student council representative and was elected to 
that, Christina Taylor Green; Federal Judge John Roll, father and 
grandfather; Phyllis Schneck, a former Jerseyite who still loved the 
New York Giants who, as you may know, play in New Jersey; Gabriel 
Zimmerman, commander of outreach, who did such a great job for her; and 
two 76-year-olds, Dorothy Morris and Dorwan Stoddard, who shielded his 
wife so that she would live.
  I thank the leadership for bringing forth this resolution, first 
acknowledging the victims of the tragic shooting in Tucson, Arizona, 
and also condemning the act of violence which was a product of hatred 
that threatens the democracy of this Nation in which all

[[Page H170]]

can participate and in which intimidation and threats of violence 
cannot silence the voices of any American. Congresswoman Giffords, her 
staff members, and constituents were exercising this very privilege on 
Saturday, January 8, as well as the right afforded to all of us under 
the First Amendment of the Constitution.
  It is ironic that gun violence has, throughout our history, brought 
down leaders--Abraham Lincoln, 150 years ago, who said all people 
should be free; our President, John F. Kennedy in 1963, during that 
time; his brother, Bobby Kennedy, 5 years later; Mohandas Gandhi, who 
brought India into independence; Tom Mboya, a Kenyan who talked about a 
united Africa; Yitzhak Rabin, who, if he had lived, I think there would 
be peace in the Middle East; and then, of course, Dr. Martin Luther 
King.
  The SPEAKER pro tempore. The time of the gentleman has expired.
  Mr. PASTOR of Arizona. I yield the gentleman an additional 30 
seconds.
  Mr. PAYNE. So as we think about the tragedy of so many outstanding 
Americans who have lost their lives, I implore each and every one of us 
to continue in the spirit of unity, support, and love that often 
overflows during tragic events. May we continue in such spirits to 
prevent further acts, for we all know that only love drives out hatred 
and only good drives out evil.
  Mr. DANIEL E. LUNGREN of California. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes 
to the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Brady).
  Mr. BRADY of Texas. Madam Speaker, we gather here today to honor the 
victims and the heroes of the tragic shooting that took place in 
Arizona this past weekend.
  Gabby Giffords is one of the best this institution has to offer. I 
have had the honor of working with her on NASA issues in support of 
human spaceflight.
  Gabby embodies the type of public servant many of us strive to be: 
smart, kind, and dedicated, fulfilling her duty representing her 
constituents. That's why she was holding a public meeting on the first 
weekend of the new session.
  I pray for her strong recovery and for her family and staff, and I 
look forward to working with her once more in this body.
  I think in the darkest moments in our history we also see the 
brightest stars. Those stars are the men who wrestled the gunman to the 
floor, the woman who kicked the magazine away, the loved ones who 
protected their spouses and children, the intern who had enough first 
aid training to put pressure on Gabby's head wound, the first 
responders who responded to that scene, and the medical teams that got 
most of the victims into the operating rooms in under 38 minutes.
  Gabby's staff so clearly reflects her character and leadership. Gabe 
Zimmerman lost his life fulfilling his duty, and two others were 
wounded. We pray for their recovery and for Gabe's family and friends 
in this time of tragedy. The efforts of her intern, Daniel Hernandez, 
may very well have saved Gabby's life, and we will always be grateful 
for his quick actions.
  We also pray for the other victims of this unspeakable act of 
violence: for Christina Taylor Green, Dorothy Morris, Phyllis Schneck, 
Dorwan Stoddard, and Judge John Roll. We pray for swift and fair 
justice for them as well.
  As we stand here today, Democrats and Republicans, we are steadfast 
in our determination to keep representing our constituents. We will not 
let the tragic events in Tucson change the way we represent the people. 
We will instead look to Saturday's heroes as a reminder of the real 
strength that is America.
  As Americans, we know that adversity, however tragic, makes us 
stronger and brings us closer together. That is what Gabby would want. 
We look forward to the day we welcome her back to this Chamber. God 
bless America and all her citizens hurting in the wake of this tragedy.
  Mr. PASTOR of Arizona. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the 
gentleman from Maryland (Mr. Sarbanes).
  Mr. SARBANES. I thank the gentleman for yielding.
  In the last few days, I have run into scores of people of my 
district, the Third District of Maryland, who have expressed their 
shock and their sadness at the events that occurred in Tucson last 
weekend. On their behalf and for myself, I want to express our deep 
condolences to the families of all those who were victimized by this 
tragedy.
  A word about Gabby Giffords, our colleague. She and I came in 
together in the same class. We began in January of 2007. She is 
everything that a Representative in this body should be. She is 
thoughtful. She is hardworking. She is compassionate and, to a fault, 
she is attentive to the concerns of her constituents. That is why she 
was there at that supermarket last Saturday.
  We pray for her speedy recovery. We pray for the recovery of all 
those who survived this terrible event. We mourn the loss of those who 
perished, and we send our thoughts and prayers to their families.
  Mr. DANIEL E. LUNGREN of California. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes 
to the gentleman from Washington, the former distinguished sheriff of 
King County, Mr. Reichert.
  Mr. REICHERT. I thank the gentleman.
  Madam Speaker, there are a few words that have touched me over the 
last few days that I would like to share. First, thankfulness, 
thoughtfulness, prayerfulness, patience, wisdom, and hope.

                              {time}  1540

  First we should remember those who have lost loved ones, keep them in 
your thoughts and prayers. They'll not need them just today, but 
they'll need them in the weeks, the months, and the years to come. A 
pain that will never leave their hearts.
  Second, thankfulness. We sure thank God for Gabby's remarkable 
recovery and pray that her recovery continues in a speedy way and in a 
way that causes her to recover to the point where she can return to 
this House and work with us again.
  And I think of patience and wisdom--and I'm addressing the Speaker 
but asking the Members of this body to think about patience and wisdom 
in a moment because first of all, let's respect the investigation 
that's being conducted by the law enforcement officers across this 
country, the Federal, local, and State agencies. Let's respect their 
continued efforts in weeding through the information that they're 
gathering. Let's be patient when we think about legislation and laws 
that we might be passing that could inhibit that investigation or maybe 
even inhibit some of the freedoms that we today enjoy, patience in 
allowing them to gather the needed information where we can base good 
decisions on building good laws that protect the citizens of this great 
Nation.
  And lastly hope. Hope, which is a thing we all hold near and dear to 
our hearts, hope that this country continues to maintain its freedom, 
hope in the American people, hope that we can all stand together after 
this tragedy. If there is a silver lining in this tragedy, it is the 
hope and the strength and the trust that the people of this country can 
build together to keep this country free.
  Mr. PASTOR of Arizona. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the 
gentleman from New York (Mr. Engel).
  Mr. ENGEL. I want to first say I'm so proud of all of my colleagues 
on both sides of the aisle who have spoken today. Gabby has brought us 
all together as never before.
  I'm a good friend of Gabby Giffords. She's a good friend of mine. I 
first met her before she ran for Congress when a mutual friend said to 
me, You ought to meet this lady. She wants to run for Congress and 
wants some advice. Would you give it to her? I called Gabby. She called 
me back. We spoke. And she decided to run, and we've been good friends 
ever since.
  My colleagues have all said it today: Gabby is as kind and as sweet 
and as nice a person as you could ever meet. She's considerate, she's 
thoughtful, she's caring, smart, hardworking. It's hard to believe that 
anyone would want to harm her. She was doing what she always did--going 
out in service of her constituents, helping her constituents, going out 
to a shopping center.
  You know, I have another connection with Gabby. My son Jonathan 
attended the University of Arizona, just graduated this year. And she 
and I spoke many times about Tucson. I have been to Tucson many, many 
times in these past 5 years. I've even shopped in the

[[Page H171]]

Safeway, tragically, where the gunman shot all of the people, including 
Gabby.
  You know, Gabby said something to me this past August as we recessed. 
I served as the chair of the Western Hemisphere Subcommittee of the 
House Foreign Affairs Committee and Gabby served on my subcommittee, 
and we talked about having a field hearing in Tucson. And when I said 
to her, Let's try to do it in September or October of this year, she 
said to me, No. You know, the speech, the language has gotten very 
hostile and people's attitudes toward Washington have been very 
hostile, and I don't really want to do anything that would show that 
I'm the Washington person. That's how bad the atmosphere is.
  I couldn't help but thinking about that when I heard about the 
shooting on Saturday.
  The SPEAKER pro tempore. The time of the gentleman has expired.
  Mr. PASTOR of Arizona. I yield the gentleman an additional 30 
seconds.
  Mr. ENGEL. You know, in this country we do our political discourse 
with balance, not bullets. And although the assassin tried to murder a 
U.S. Congresswoman, he really was trying to stick a stake or murder 
American democracy. All of us on both sides of the aisle are not going 
to let him. We are going to continue to do what we've done before--
going out in the street, meeting people, taking care, and helping our 
constituents. We are going to continue to attend town hall meetings and 
do the kinds of things that Gabby would want us to do.

  I look forward to Gabby returning here. I look forward to working 
with her again. Gabby Giffords is the best America has to offer, and we 
honor her and all of the other victims of the shooting today.
  Mr. DANIEL E. LUNGREN of California. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes 
to the gentleman from Louisiana (Mr. Scalise).
  Mr. SCALISE. Madam Speaker, it is with a heavy heart today that I 
join my colleagues in paying respects to the victims of the senseless 
tragedy that took place last weekend in Arizona. I extend my prayers to 
the families of those who lost their lives, to the wounded, and the 
recovering, and to our dear colleague, Gabby Giffords.
  Gabby is an energetic Member of Congress who works and enjoys and 
treats all of those she meets with decency and kindness. I was here 
with her just last week while we read the United States Constitution on 
the floor of this House. Gabby so eloquently read from that bedrock of 
our democracy the First Amendment. In a direct reflection of her 
passion for interacting with those she represents, Gabby read of the 
established right of the people to peaceably assemble.
  All of those gathered in Tucson on Saturday were engaging in what 
should have been a peaceful activity that is absolutely fundamental to 
our form of government--spending time with the gentlelady who so 
proudly advocates on their behalf here in the United States House of 
Representatives
  Among the fallen were Phyllis Schneck, a great-grandmother; Dorothy 
Morris, a devoted wife; Gabe Zimmerman, a public servant; John Roll, an 
honorable judge; Christina Taylor Green, a 9-year-old girl who just 
wanted to learn more about government; and Dorwan Stoddard, a man who 
gave his life protecting and saving his wife. They are all in our 
thoughts and prayers.
  Our Founding Fathers made no mistake when they included the right to 
peaceably assemble among the first tenets of democracy. The 
inexplicable violence of last Saturday is a stark, tragic reminder that 
we must never waver in our steadfast support of the First Amendment and 
the precious freedoms it affords us every day.
  As our colleague, Gabby, and all of those directly affected by this 
tragedy continue to heal from Saturday's incomprehensible events, let 
us remember the victims and their loved ones in our thoughts and in our 
prayers and in our actions. As those of us here have known, and as 
people all throughout the Nation are witnessing, Gabby Giffords is a 
fighter. Let's keep in our prayers the hope that she once again joins 
us back here on the floor of this, the people's House.
  Mr. PASTOR of Arizona. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the 
gentleman from Kentucky (Mr. Yarmuth).
  Mr. YARMUTH. Madam Speaker, Congresswoman Gabby Giffords is one of 
the kindest, most thoughtful and hardest working elected officials 
anywhere. It is a shame that it took a despicable act to shine this 
bright spotlight on Gabby. She is what virtually every American would 
say they want in a Member of Congress--smart, open, friendly, 
intellectually honest, and very brave. She cares passionately about all 
of her constituents and, as she was demonstrating on Saturday, what 
they think.
  Speaker Boehner was absolutely correct when he said an attack on one 
Member of Congress is an attack on all, but Saturday's attack was more 
than an assault on a Congresswoman. It was an attack on American 
democracy. Gabby was doing what her job title implied--listening to her 
constituents at an event set up like hundreds before, conducting the 
business essential to effective representation. Dozens of citizens were 
actively participating in our democracy, asking questions and 
expressing themselves. The attack on Giffords was an attack on them as 
well.
  Earth-shaking tragedies sometimes create the opportunity for our 
society to have a reasoned discussion on critically important issues 
that we often cannot have under normal circumstances. In the wake of 
catastrophe, our hope is that such a discussion can strengthen our 
democracy and help our Nation emerge stronger.
  Responsibility for this weekend's shooting in Tucson rests solely on 
the shoulders of the madman who pulled the trigger. However, it is our 
responsibility, as citizens in the world's strongest democracy, to 
seriously consider the impact that the accessibility of high-capacity 
weapons and the increased vitriol of public dialogue have on 
impressionable or unstable individuals and our society as a whole.
  For all of the pain and agony caused by this tragedy, it could also 
be a turning point for the country. Already leaders from across the 
political spectrum are discussing the vital need to turn down the 
rhetorical volume and dial back extremism for the sake of our Nation.

                              {time}  1550

  We all are praying for Gabby's recovery and for the families of those 
who were killed and wounded Saturday. Let each of us resolve to do all 
we can to protect our democracy from those who would deny and subvert 
it.
  Mr. DANIEL E. LUNGREN of California. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes 
to the gentleman from New York (Mr. Grimm).
  Mr. GRIMM. I thank the gentleman from California for yielding.
  Madam Speaker, I thank you for the opportunity to come to the House 
floor to honor the victims of the tragic shooting in Arizona. The six 
individuals killed and the 14 wounded, including Congresswoman 
Gabrielle Giffords, were victims of a heinous and despicable act of 
violence. On behalf of the constituents of the 13th District of New 
York, I want to extend my deepest sympathies to the victims, their 
families and friends, and to the staff of Congresswoman Giffords. We 
will continue to keep them in our thoughts and prayers.
  As we come together as a Congress and a country to mourn and reflect, 
I urge my colleagues not to lose sight of what we have been called here 
to do and what we are here to accomplish. Congresswoman Giffords was 
doing the exact thing I hope we will all continue to do--going out into 
her community and taking the time to meet with, to talk to, and most of 
all, to listen to her constituents. This is what keeps us connected to 
the heartbeat of our district. This is what allows us to effectively 
serve our constituents and our country. This is what democracy is all 
about. This is what we have been elected to do.
  Additionally, I implore my colleagues to resist the innate temptation 
to enact reactionary legislation or call for extreme measures that 
could adversely impact the institution of the House of Representatives. 
Giving due respect to the Capitol Police and the FBI, we should allow 
them to do their jobs, to thoroughly investigate, and afford them the 
time to offer us recommendations for our safety and that of our staff 
and constituents.
  I hope that moving forward we will not let this incident create 
distance between ourselves and those we have

[[Page H172]]

been sent here to represent. We cannot let this senseless, this 
completely senseless act of violence keep us from serving our districts 
as effectively as possible.
  The SPEAKER pro tempore. The time of the gentleman has expired.
  Mr. DANIEL E. LUNGREN of California. I yield the gentleman an 
additional 30 seconds.
  Mr. GRIMM. As we move forward, let us remember that, while we should 
remain aware of the danger around us, we cannot live in fear or isolate 
ourselves in a bubble. Today, I mourn with my colleagues and the 
Nation, and I will continue to pray for those lost and to pray for 
Congresswoman Giffords and the others injured in the attack and that 
they will have a full and speedy recovery.
  Mr. PASTOR of Arizona. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the 
distinguished gentleman from Michigan (Mr. Peters).
  Mr. PETERS. Madam Speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I take to 
the floor of the House today to pay tribute to the fallen, but also to 
honor the heroes, to express grief in the wake of tragedy, but also to 
express my heartfelt gratitude to those who showed incredible bravery 
in the face of evil.
  Madam Speaker, I come to the floor of the House today to honor my 
colleague and friend Gabby Giffords, because I want every American to 
know that she exemplifies what every American wants to see in their 
Member of Congress. The Gabby I know is smart and hard working. The 
Gabby that southern Arizona knows is personable and accessible. The 
Gabby we all know is dedicated and humble.
  Gabby takes her job representing Arizona seriously. She works hard to 
effect change on the issues that matter most to her southern Arizona 
constituents. We both served on the Committee on Science and Technology 
in the last Congress, and I was privileged to be able to collaborate 
with Gabby on her signature issue--solar energy development. She worked 
tirelessly to create not only clean energy for America, but also new 
jobs for Americans.
  We are both residents of border States, albeit different borders, and 
I was proud to cosponsor her legislation to help give businesses the 
tools necessary to enforce immigration standards. I admired her strong 
commitment to our national defense and her tireless dedication to the 
men and women who serve our country in uniform. But even more than her 
legislative prowess, it is her smile and friendly nature that makes her 
a beloved figure here in the Halls of Congress as well as in her home 
district. And we all pray for her speedy recovery.
  We also mourn the loss of those who were senselessly murdered while 
participating in the most fundamental democratic tradition--talking 
with the people who represent us; victims like 9-year-old Christina 
Taylor, who was just elected to her student council. Christina attended 
Representative Giffords' Congress on Your Corner event because she 
cared about her community, and a neighbor thought she would enjoy it.
  But while this tragedy has extinguished lives of promise, it has also 
revealed some incredible heroes. Today we stand shoulder to shoulder 
and pray for the speedy recovery of our friend and the other wounded 
victims.
  The SPEAKER pro tempore. The time of the gentleman has expired.
  Mr. PASTOR of Arizona. I yield the gentleman an additional 30 
seconds.
  Mr. PETERS. And I just say to all, God bless the victims and their 
families; God bless all those who are grieving, and God bless America.
  Mr. DANIEL E. LUNGREN of California. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes 
to the distinguished gentleman from Texas, Dr. Burgess.
  Mr. BURGESS. I thank the gentleman from California for yielding.
  Madam Speaker, I stand today in support of the resolution; I stand 
today in support of the victims of the devastating events of last 
Saturday, and I stand today in honor of one of our own, Congresswoman 
Gabrielle Giffords.
  Congresswoman Giffords was the youngest woman elected to the Arizona 
State Senate and now, at the Federal level, continues to serve the 
constituents of her hometown with enthusiasm and distinction. It was in 
this spirit of statesmanship that she participated in her Congress on 
Your Corner event at the grocery store in Tucson, Arizona. This event 
characterizes the Congresswoman's approach to her constituents. She 
recognizes the importance of remaining open to the people--retail 
representation--absolutely necessary in order to fully grasp the extent 
of the needs and views of those she served.
  Congresswoman Giffords epitomizes the term ``public servant,'' 
understanding that she works for the people first, last, and always.
  Congresswoman Giffords was doing the work of the American people when 
her life was threatened. And after she recovers, I have no doubt that 
she will return with that same energy and determination.
  I look forward to working with her again. I had the opportunity to 
partner with her on the Congressional Motorcycle Caucus in support of 
motorcycle safety awareness, and I saw that energy and enthusiasm 
firsthand.
  One of our primary freedoms that our forefathers upheld was the right 
to life. After years of fighting on behalf of others, Congresswoman 
Giffords must now fight for her own life. And let us also remember the 
doctors and the nurses, the first responders who played such a pivotal 
role in preventing an even greater loss of life last Saturday.
  I will keep Congresswoman Giffords and those who were injured and 
their families in my prayers. I also offer my deepest condolences to 
the families of Christina Taylor Green, U.S. District Judge John M. 
Roll, Gabe Zimmerman, Phyllis Schneck, Dorothy Morris, and Dorwan 
Stoddard.
  Mr. PASTOR of Arizona. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the 
distinguished gentleman from New York (Mr. Israel).
  Mr. ISRAEL. I thank the gentleman from Arizona for yielding.
  Madam Speaker, the violence in Tucson and the shooting of my very 
good friend Gabby Giffords is not a time for partisanship and it is not 
a time for politics. It is a time for reflection, and I have three 
brief reflections to share with my colleagues.
  I knew Gabby pretty well. We weren't best friends, but we were good 
friends. I was with her and her husband, Mark, on the day that Mark 
proposed to her. We were in New York, and Gabby and I had several 
events to do. And Mark kept asking if Gabby could leave early, and I 
kept saying no. And finally, Mark said, There is no choice. She's 
leaving early.
  I later learned that the reason that she had to leave these events 
early was because Mark took her to the Merchant Marine Academy in Kings 
Point and proposed to her. Most of my constituents now know Gabby 
Giffords. Few know that this important day in her life occurred on Long 
Island.
  Second reflection, I believe that Gabby would have been uncomfortable 
with the attention that she is getting today and over the past several 
days. I believe she would want Americans more focused on the 9-year-old 
girl who was killed, on the Federal judge who was killed, on the 
congressional staffer who lost his life, on the others who were killed 
and wounded.
  And my final reflection is this: I believe that we should reject the 
notion that Gabby's colleagues in Congress need to hide from our 
constituents, that we should reduce our exposure. This is not the time 
for us to hide from our constituents. This is the time for us to 
reassert our connection with our constituents. And this isn't the time 
for us to hide our opinions.
  This is a time for us to reassert our opinions, but to do it without 
vilifying one another. There is a way to have opinions without 
necessarily demeaning one another. We have the right to our opinions, 
but not to be called any more or less of an American with a different 
opinion.
  Opinions and the expression of those opinions are the essence of 
democracy. They are American. And it is fitting that Gabby Giffords on 
this floor, at that podium last week, read the First Amendment in the 
Constitution, which talks about our right to have opinions.

                              {time}  1600

  We should continue to express those opinions but do it in a way that 
would make our children proud of us, do it in a way that is respectful 
and tolerant. That is exactly what Gabby Giffords did while she was 
here, and it is exactly what she will do when she returns.

[[Page H173]]

  Mr. DANIEL E. LUNGREN of California. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes 
to the gentleman from California (Mr. Rohrabacher).
  Mr. ROHRABACHER. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of the resolution.
  The tragedy we discuss today is of enormous consequence to the 
families of those who were killed and wounded and, of course, our 
hearts go out to them, especially to the member of our own family, 
congressional family, to the Giffords, but all those who were killed or 
wounded in this senseless violence that took place in Arizona. This, of 
course, is not just of great consequence to them but of great 
consequence to all of us.
  There are things that we must learn, and there are events like this 
that happen that will help us shape what we will do in the future. One 
thing we must not let this do is to reduce the actual contact between 
the American people and their elected representatives.
  We will not let the acts of a demented individual reduce the right of 
the American people to have direct contact with their Member of the 
House of Representatives, and we will not let this senseless act of 
violence diminish or in some way stampede us into in some way 
diminishing the freedom and reducing the freedom of the American people 
themselves.
  Finally, let me just say there is a positive lesson to be learned 
from this tragic event, and that is we must make sure that we treat 
each other better here in Congress, and those of us who are active in 
the political arena need to understand we need to be kinder to each 
other. Even as we disagree with each other fervently on policy, there 
is no reason for us to have insinuations about negative values of the 
person on the other side of the argument.
  We need to make sure that we exemplify for the American people that 
people can disagree on fundamental issues, even have basic differences 
in value systems and what their goal is for our government, but still 
respect the other person's opinion and treat the other person with 
kindness and dignity. That's one lesson that we need to learn and to 
make sure the American people see us as an example of that.
  Ronald Reagan used to say, be really tough when it comes to policy 
but, Dana, be really nice to people. Well, that's how Ronald Reagan 
ended the Cold War. He was really tough on communism, but he was very 
kind to those people who worked in the Soviet Union, which later led to 
that disintegration.
  Today we need to be kinder to each other. We need to be respectful of 
the fact that people on the other side of issues are as intelligent as 
we are and as moral as we are, but that doesn't mean we shouldn't use 
tough language about those issues. Let's be kinder to each other and 
let's send that as a present, a get-well message to Gabby, because 
there is no one else that exemplified that better than her. We know 
that.
  The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mrs. Emerson). The time of the gentleman has 
expired.
  Mr. DANIEL E. LUNGREN of California. I yield the gentleman 1 
additional minute.
  Mr. ROHRABACHER. Congresswoman Giffords and I were on separate sides 
of a major issue, an issue of great concern to me. I have been on the 
Science Committee for 22 years, and she was for a totally different 
approach to the American space program than I have been on. We had some 
very serious debate on that issue.
  I will tell you not only was she kind and articulate, but she was 
brilliant--which of course I didn't necessarily want her to show that 
brilliance in her arguments against my arguments. But I remember right 
here on this floor, after a major debate that we had, I walked over to 
her when the gavel went down and people were leaving, and I said, you 
know, you did a great job for your position today. I really respect you 
more than some of the people on my side of the issue, because you were 
articulate, you took your responsibility seriously, you have presented 
your arguments. I just want you to know how much I admire that in you. 
Keep it up and I know you will be Speaker someday--and I shouldn't say 
that to my colleagues over here. I don't say that often to my 
colleagues on the other side of the aisle.

  But that's the type of spirit that she had, and I would hope that we 
send that message to Gabby and to the rest of the American people 
today.
  Mr. PASTOR of Arizona. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I 
may consume.
  On behalf of Congresswoman Gabby Giffords, the families of the 
victims, the people recovering in Tucson and my fellow Arizonans, I 
want to express a sense of gratitude to all the Members here who have 
spoken and will speak, for your prayers, for your condolences and your 
affection you have given all of us.
  We thank you very much from the bottom of our hearts. We hope that 
some of the expressions you have given of showing respect, more respect 
to each other, more love for each other and disagreeing, debating, but 
not being disagreeable, will help us do the business of this House.
  Madam Speaker, I yield the balance of my time to the distinguished 
gentleman from Iowa (Mr. Braley), and I ask unanimous consent that he 
be allowed to control that time.
  The SPEAKER pro tempore. Without objection, the gentleman from Iowa 
(Mr. Braley) will control the time.
  There was no objection.
  Mr. DANIEL E. LUNGREN of California. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes 
to the gentleman from Ohio (Mr. Tiberi).
  Mr. TIBERI. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the victims of 
Saturday's shooting in Tucson and pray with all of us for them and 
their families.
  This senseless tragedy has struck at the very foundation of the 
United States of America, attacking a representative to Congress, a 
congressional staffer, innocent bystanders in front of a grocery store. 
But there were heroes who showed up that day: the intern, Daniel 
Hernandez, who came to Gabrielle Giffords' aid; the witnesses who 
immediately tried to help those who were injured; the civilians who 
bravely stopped the shooter from injuring and inflicting more harm on 
others; the emergency room personnel; the emergency personnel overall 
whose decisive action saved other lives. These are the true examples of 
the spirit of what America is all about.
  It's important to remember that this was an outrageous act by a 
deranged individual. Despite all the talk about tone and rhetoric, it's 
important to remember that we all on this House floor can disagree 
without being disagreeable.
  The fact is that as public officials, Madam Speaker, being accessible 
to the public is an important part of our jobs, and we cannot let this 
tragedy stop us from doing our important work. We are Members of the 
people's House, and the minute we start separating ourselves from the 
people is the minute that we weaken our Republic.

  The events in Tucson remind us how fragile our lives are. We pray 
again for the victims and their families, and we remember what really 
matters and that civility should rule the day.
  Mr. BRALEY of Iowa. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the 
gentlewoman from Maine (Ms. Pingree).
  Ms. PINGREE of Maine. I thank my colleague from Iowa for yielding the 
time.
  Madam Speaker, it's hard, after a long day like this when all of us 
are feeling so sad and discouraged about the challenges that have been 
faced by Gabby and her family and others, to actually think of anything 
that hasn't been said. But I want to reiterate what so many of my 
colleagues have said, so many of us who consider ourselves friends of 
Gabby, who are so proud of the work that she has done, who know what a 
hard fighter Gabby is and hope that she continues to pull through every 
day.
  I sit near Gabby on the Armed Services Committee, and I have never 
seen Gabby walk into a hearing room without a pile of letters that she 
plans to sign, a few things that she is going to read, prepared to ask 
good questions and keep her eye on the conversation and the debate the 
whole time we are in there. That is just Gabby; she is always working, 
she is always thinking.

                              {time}  1610

  You turn to her and ask her a question. She always has a smile or a 
little joke or is ready to make a plan for some kind of an outing or a 
field trip or something that we could all do together. She is a 
wonderful colleague, as

[[Page H174]]

we can see today, well respected by both sides of the aisle, well 
regarded by all colleagues, whether they agree or disagree, and highly 
well regarded back in her home community where she had another hard-
fought election but came through.
  Our thoughts and prayers are with her. I know Gabby is on the Armed 
Services Committee because she's a fighter. She's a fighter for the 
people she represents, and I do believe she's fighting in her hospital 
room today, fighting for her life alongside her husband.
  Our thoughts and prayers are with the others who died alongside where 
Gabby was lying, who came to that event and were injured, innocent 
victims--a young woman and a staff member who was dedicated.
  Many of us realize when we take this job on that we take a risk, but 
we often forget the risk of those who serve with us, those young people 
who come out and stand beside us, the risk that they are also taking 
just to be with us everywhere we go.
  I also want to mention someone else who I was asked to mention who 
wasn't appearing in the resolution that we talked about earlier today, 
but Dr. Steven Rayle, a former emergency room physician was just a few 
feet away from Gabby when the shooting began. In the terrifying moments 
after the shooting, Rayle was able to use his trained first responder 
skills to triage what I can only imagine was a terrifying scene. And we 
owe him a great deal of gratitude.
  The SPEAKER pro tempore. The time of the gentlewoman has expired.
  Mr. BRALEY of Iowa. I yield the gentlewoman 30 additional seconds.
  Ms. PINGREE of Maine. I just again want to thank Dr. Rayle for his 
heroism and for his being there with Gabby in the first possible 
moments. We owe him our gratitude, and everyone else who worked so hard 
to make sure that people were safe as quickly as possible at that 
scene.
  And I echo the remarks of my earlier colleague, Dana Rohrabacher. I 
hope this all reminds us to think about how we speak, to think about 
how we speak with each other, how we conduct our business, and how we 
move forward. This is a solemn week. We will have many solemn weeks 
ahead of us, and we have a lot of work to do.
  Mr. DANIEL E. LUNGREN of California. Madam Speaker, I yield 3 minutes 
to the gentlewoman from California, a distinguished presiding officer 
of this body, Mrs. Bono Mack.
  Mrs. BONO MACK. I thank the gentleman for yielding.
  Madam Speaker, I rise today to offer a prayer for our Nation. 
President Abraham Lincoln, during the height of the Civil War and 
during a very low point in American civility, once told a hushed crowd: 
``My dream is of a place and a time where America will once again be 
seen as the last best hope of Earth.''
  My friend, all of our friend, Arizona Congresswoman Gabrielle 
Giffords, has believed in that dream for her entire life. Today, she 
represents a beacon of hope, perhaps ``our'' last best hope, to restore 
some measure of civility to the important public debates of our day.
  This is not a time to be finger pointing. Rather, this is a time, in 
memory of all those who died or who were injured during this dark day 
in our history, to start talking again like friends and neighbors.
  Right now, we should be praying for Gabby and all of the other 
victims of this horrible ordeal. We should be searching our soul as a 
Nation, asking one important question, a question Abraham Lincoln 
confronted every single day of his Presidency: How have we allowed 
hateful rhetoric to paralyze our national debates?
  Yes, we all have different points of view, but we should discuss 
them, and we should debate them without resorting to name-calling or 
questioning each other's motives. Gabby has always stood for civility. 
She is the most delightful and the kindest Member of Congress, and I 
think we've all said that. Her never-ending smile and her unfailing 
willingness to work in our Nation's best interests have earned her the 
respect of people everywhere.

  I, like all of my colleagues, cannot wait for the day when Gabby 
walks back onto this floor and she joins us. She is a strong woman with 
a very unbreakable spirit and a passion for life, her family, her 
friends, and our great Nation.
  Let us all pray to give Gabby the strength to carry her through the 
difficult days ahead. I believe with all of my heart that Gabby was put 
on Earth by God to make a difference. And she has. I know, because 
she's made a difference in my life.
  So the next time that a debate heats up and threatens to get ugly, 
let's remember our responsibilities as leaders. Let's remember what 
Abraham Lincoln said. Let's take a deep breath and ``agree to disagree 
agreeably.'' Let's do that for Gabby.
  Mr. BRALEY of Iowa. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman 
from Iowa (Mr. Loebsack).
  Mr. LOEBSACK. I thank my colleague and friend from Iowa for 
recognizing me.
  Madam Speaker, I join my colleagues, my constituents, and all 
Americans in mourning for those who lost their lives in this weekend's 
heinous event and in praying for those, including our dear friend and 
colleague, Congresswoman Giffords, who are fighting to recover.
  I have had the honor to serve with Gabby, like many in this body, on 
the Armed Services Committee since we were both elected in 2006, and 
I've always been struck by her intelligence and by her commitment to 
her constituents.
  When she and her constituents were attacked on Saturday, she was 
carrying out the most central of our responsibilities as elected 
representatives, as was already mentioned, and that is making ourselves 
available to our constituents. That this horrific attack occurred in 
the middle of a gathering that is the basis of our representative 
democracy is a reminder to us all that we must all remain constantly 
committed to upholding the principles upon which our great Nation was 
founded.
  As we come together to offer our prayers to all those involved, I 
hope that we will carry forward the sentiment that so many have 
expressed in the last few days, including on the floor of this House of 
Representatives, that our country's commitment to passionate debate is 
the heart of our democracy, but that debate must also be rooted in 
civil discourse and mutual respect. We can, and we should, debate with 
vigor the pressing challenges facing our Nation, but we must do so in a 
way that moves our country forward and that is constructive. In part, 
that will require us to recommit ourselves--recommit ourselves--to 
civil discourse and honest debate as well as to remaining accessible to 
our constituents and listening to all viewpoints.
  We are a Nation, I believe, that rejects violence. And on a day when 
we saw really the very worst of humanity, we also saw the very best: 
individuals who were willing to lay down their lives to save others. 
Let those folks serve as our inspiration, and let us continue to keep 
all those affected in our thoughts and prayers and continue to move 
forward in America in a constructive, positive, and mutually respectful 
manner.
  Mr. DANIEL E. LUNGREN of California. Madam Speaker, I am privileged 
to yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from California (Mr. McClintock).
  Mr. McCLINTOCK. I thank the gentleman for yielding.
  Madam Speaker, I haven't gotten to know Gabrielle Giffords very well 
yet, and I thank God that by His grace I haven't lost the chance to do 
so. I didn't know the Americans who came to speak with her that day. 
But what I do know is that they gathered last Saturday to do something 
uniquely American.
  Gabrielle Giffords was reaching out and listening to her employers, 
the American people, and they had come to offer her their guidance, 
advice, and counsel. In this respect, the attack on Gabrielle Giffords 
and her constituents struck at the very heart of our process of 
representative democracy, that very point where the American people 
communicate their views to their elected representatives. That is the 
linchpin in the entire process of self-government.
  This was not only an attack on those who serve; it was an attack on 
every citizen who steps forward to offer honest advice and counsel and, 
yes, even criticism to those they have selected to serve them and to 
serve the Nation.

[[Page H175]]

  It is the nature and strength of participatory democracy to have 
sincere and passionate differences of opinion. But in moments like 
this, we see the very best of the American people come forward. We put 
aside our differences and disagreements, and we stand together as one 
Nation, the American Nation; one race, the American race; one people, 
the American people. Men and women of goodwill cease to be Republicans 
or Democrats. We suspend our political agendas; we silence the partisan 
recriminations, and we stand together as Americans.
  By doing so, we pay supreme honor to our fellow citizens who were 
felled in the exercise of their rights and responsibilities as a free 
people. We salute the heroes who, without a moment's hesitation, rose 
to resist and stop this craven and depraved attack, and we assure the 
world, as Lincoln said, that ``government of the people, by the people, 
for the people, shall not perish from the Earth.''
  Mr. BRALEY of Iowa. Madam Speaker, I am pleased to yield 2 minutes to 
the distinguished gentleman from Texas, another colleague from the 
Armed Services Committee, Mr. Reyes.

                              {time}  1620

  Mr. REYES. I thank my colleague for yielding.
  Madam Speaker, today I rise on behalf of the people of the 16th 
Congressional District of Texas to express our community's profound 
sadness in the wake of Saturday's senseless act of violence that 
claimed the lives of six Americans and has left our esteemed colleague, 
Gabby Giffords, fighting for her life and has affected 13 others.
  Ironically enough, last week on Thursday we had a meeting of the 
Border Caucus. Gabby came to that meeting, and we discussed the agenda 
for the 112th Congress. I can tell you that she is a tireless champion 
on border issues. She is an incredible Member, dedicated to 
representing the people of her district, and I have had the pleasure of 
working with her on border issues, on military issues, and on 
intelligence issues on many occasions.
  Over the last few days, my office has received an outpouring of 
support for Gabby, for her family, and for her staff, as well as 
everyone else who was affected by this tragedy.
  Madam Speaker, when I was in my congressional district this past 
Sunday, I was approached by a gentleman who I recognized who said 
something to me that I thought was very touching. He said: Congressman, 
I often disagree with you on many issues, but I want you to know that 
I'm praying for your friend from Arizona and for you. I hope she keeps 
up the fight and pulls through.
  I expressed my appreciation on behalf of all of us and shook his 
hand.
  Madam Speaker, in the aftermath of this tragedy, one of the best ways 
that I know of to honor the victims is to come together as Americans, 
as so many Members have said, and to speak with one voice against the 
violence and the hate that claimed the lives of both Republicans and 
Democrats, Americans all both young and old.
  Our thoughts and our prayers today and since Saturday have been with 
Gabby, her family, as well as all of the victims and their families 
affected by this terrible tragedy. It is now up to us to move forward 
in the same spirit that they have shown as they persevere through this 
terrible time.
  With that, it rests on us to be better. As Mark's brother said from 
space: It is a peaceful planet. It looks peaceful. Sadly, it is not; 
but we can do better. We must do better.
  Mr. DANIEL E. LUNGREN of California. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes 
to the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Thompson).
  Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, today our thoughts and 
prayers are with all of those who were taken from us last week in this 
horrific tragedy in Tucson, Arizona. Our Nation stands with 
Congresswoman Giffords in her recovery, her family, her staff, and all 
of those who have been impacted by this tragic event, including the 
family of Gabe Zimmerman, Giffords' director of community outreach, and 
Federal Judge John Roll, who both died during the shooting.
  We also stand with Christina Taylor Green who lost her life that day. 
Christina had hoped to go to Penn State one day and pursue a career of 
helping others. Penn State is one of the top public universities in the 
country, and it is located in my congressional district. I share those 
same aspirations and have no doubt that Christina would have achieved 
her dreams and been successful in the career path of her choosing. I 
offer my deepest condolences to her family.
  While this tragedy reminds us of how fragile life is, it also shows 
us what we can truly be thankful for.
  I want to commend and thank all of the Federal, State, and local 
officials for all of their efforts over the last week. These everyday 
heroes are often unsung despite the dangerous situations they are 
placed in. Americans everywhere are also thankful for those who showed 
courage to stand up in the face of danger:

  Daniel Hernandez, Representative Giffords' intern, the hero who 
assisted Congresswoman Giffords by performing triage immediately after 
the shooting.
  Bill Badger, a retired Army National Guard colonel who tackled the 
gunman despite being grazed by a bullet in the back of his head.
  People like Daniel and Bill serve as real-life examples of what it 
takes to be a hero. As we mourn our losses, we are grateful for such 
courageous acts. Our prayers are with Congresswoman Giffords, her 
staff, all those we lost or were injured, and their families. All of us 
are searching to make sense of this situation. As we do, we must 
maintain our support for those seeking recovery and pray for the well-
being of all those involved.
  Mr. BRALEY of Iowa. Madam Speaker, I am pleased to yield 2 minutes to 
the distinguished gentleman from California (Mr. Becerra).
  Mr. BECERRA. Madam Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding.
  To our friend and colleague, Gabby Giffords, to the victims and 
heroes in Tucson, and to all of their loved ones, our thoughts and 
prayers are with you. You have won our hearts with your courage and 
example in these difficult times. Gabby, knowing your ethic of hard 
work, your tenacity and determination, and knowing you as a fighter for 
what you believe in, I simply say to you: keep at it, don't stop. 
Fight, fight, fight. And we look forward to seeing you here and 
welcoming you here in your House, the people's House.
  Times like these make it unmistakably clear how important second 
chances are. Not everyone in Tucson will have that second chance. How 
lucky we are that we can pick up the baton for them and finish the job 
of seeking justice and making our democracy a more perfect Union.
  America, this is our second chance. This is our opportunity to shine. 
Let us make our work, whether here as duly sworn Representatives of the 
people or as the media or as responsible citizens of America, let us 
make our work count.
  It is our turn to show courage and to be an example as we move 
forward, doing our part to build a better America. We owe that to Gabby 
and the good people of Arizona. Let's honor them by hitting that second 
chance out of the park.
  Mr. DANIEL E. LUNGREN of California. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes 
to the gentleman from Michigan (Mr. Huizenga).
  Mr. HUIZENGA of Michigan. I thank my friend from California for 
yielding me this time.
  Madam Speaker, I rise in support of this resolution today.
  I, like all of my colleagues, was shocked and very sobered by these 
events. I was especially touched as a new Member seeing the location 
and the situation and the circumstances. This is something we all have 
done as Members. As a former district director for a former Member of 
this body, my heart especially goes out to the family of Gabe 
Zimmerman, of Ron Barber and Pamela Simons, to all the staff who have 
ever served Members in this House, both here in Washington and out of 
that district. We want to say thank you for your service. We want to 
say that our hearts and thoughts and prayers are with those families 
that have been touched. And rest assured, your safety is on top of our 
mind for us all.
  As a father, I mourn the loss of a 9-year-old daughter. I too have a 
9-year-old daughter, and I think all of us as

[[Page H176]]

parents cannot help but look at this and be heartbroken.
  As an American, this is an assault on our humanity. This is not the 
first time this has happened in our Nation's history. It is a sad day 
nonetheless. We are again asking God to heal our land. We will rise to 
this challenge as a people. I will continue to do my job as a duly 
elected Member of this body. I know my staff will do its job. I know 
all of my colleagues' staff will do their job as well; and we as a 
body, most importantly, will continue to do the people's work as we 
move forward through this tragedy.
  We again will rise to this challenge, and we pray that healing and 
grace and peace be brought to all of the victims.
  Mr. BRALEY of Iowa. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the 
distinguished gentlewoman from Connecticut (Ms. DeLauro).
  Ms. DeLAURO. Madam Speaker, this weekend we honor a truly historic 
American who, through unyielding struggle, bent the trajectory of our 
Nation closer to justice. ``Violence . . . solves no social problems,'' 
that man, Dr. Martin Luther King--himself a victim of violence--wrote. 
``It only creates new and more complicated ones.'' The shootings in 
Arizona remind us of the truth of these words. They show that the world 
is still a dangerous place for those who stand up for civic duty.
  I do not have to tell this body that Gabby Giffords has been an 
exemplary Member of this House. As a small businesswoman in her earlier 
career, she has worked hard to see that the economic concerns of 
Arizona's families are heard in Washington. As one of the growing 
number of women Members here, she has been a powerful voice on 
immigration reform, energy independence, reducing drug trafficking and 
cartel violence along the border, and the continued importance of 
exploring the stars.

                              {time}  1630

  As a third-generation Tucsonian, she has brought an Arizonan's love 
of the sun to her advocacy of renewable energy and the benefits of 
solar power for all Americans.
  More importantly, however, Gabby is an exemplary person. She is fun 
to be with. She is a dear friend of mine, a friend to my family--my 
stepdaughter, Anna Greenberg, is her pollster--and I know that, 
wherever you stand in this Chamber, she was a friend to you. She never 
had anything but a smile for anyone, left or right.
  For this, simply for serving her constituents to the best of her 
ability, she was shot in the line of duty.
  At this very moment, she fights for life in Arizona--a life that has 
already been cruelly denied six others in this tragedy, including a 
longtime officer of the court, a staffer just like the young men and 
women we rely on every day, and a little 9-year-old girl.
  The troubled individual who perpetrated this evil is now in custody, 
and time will tell what moved him to commit this unspeakable act. Yet, 
for those of us here in this room, we all have to do more to drain our 
politics of the venom where such hatred breeds.
  At this moment, above all, I pray for Gabby's recovery and for the 
others I do not know, and I mourn those who were lost.
  Mr. DANIEL E. LUNGREN of California. Madam Speaker, it is my pleasure 
to yield 2 minutes to a member of our committee, the gentleman from 
Georgia, Dr. Gingrey.
  Mr. GINGREY of Georgia. I thank my colleague from California for 
yielding time.
  I rise in strong support of this resolution.
  First and foremost, I would like to extend my prayers and wishes, as 
well as those of my constituents in northwest Georgia, to my colleague 
Representative Gabrielle Giffords, her family and staff, and to all the 
other victims of the shooting. What took place was an unspeakable 
tragedy, and it has absolutely no place in our society.
  Madam Speaker, on Saturday morning, Ms. Giffords was hosting an event 
fundamental to our duties as Members of Congress--meeting with and 
listening to our constituents so that we can best represent them in 
Washington. It is painfully sad and sobering that, in the process of 
doing her job, Gabby was brutally attacked.
  I had the pleasure of serving with Gabrielle on both the House Armed 
Services Committee and the Science and Technology Committee during the 
110th Congress. I have always known her to be a thoughtful legislator 
and a dedicated public servant and have always appreciated her cheerful 
disposition. Throughout her tenure in Congress, Representative Giffords 
has distinguished herself as one of the Members of this body who works 
well with our colleagues on both sides of the aisle.
  My prayers continue to be with her and her family, and I look forward 
to the day when she walks back onto this House floor.
  Madam Speaker, we must also not forget the other individuals who were 
victims of Saturday's attack. One of the casualties was 9-year-old 
Christina Taylor Green, who was born on September 11, 2001, and was 
recently elected to serve on her school's student council. Driven by 
her interest in politics, she had gone to Gabby's event last Saturday 
to learn more about our Federal Government. The tragedy of her death 
reminds us all of the fragile nature of life and what it means to be a 
public servant.
  Additionally, we all know the critical role that our staff members 
play in helping us carry out our duties and better serve our 
constituents. Like us, members of our staffs are dedicated public 
servants. That is why it is truly heartbreaking that a member of Ms. 
Giffords' district staff, Gabe Zimmerman, lost his life in this 
senseless attack while two other members of her Arizona-based staff 
were injured.
  In the midst of one of the darkest hours of our country in recent 
memory, let us also thank those whose courage and bravery, whether in 
helping take down the gunman or in assisting in providing care for the 
injured, deserve recognition. We thank them for their valor.

  Madam Speaker, during times of tragedy, we depend on steady 
leadership to guide us through our grief. I commend the leadership of 
both parties for remembering that there is much more that unites us 
than divides us.
  Again, I pray for the recovery of our colleague, Ms. Giffords, and 
for all of the victims of the Tucson shooting.
  Mr. BRALEY of Iowa. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the 
distinguished gentleman from Maine (Mr. Michaud).
  Mr. MICHAUD. I thank the gentleman for yielding.
  Madam Speaker, I rise today in strong support of this resolution.
  All of us on Capitol Hill were dealt with the shocking news that 
Congresswoman Gabby Giffords and her staff were shot and that her 
director of outreach, Gabe Zimmerman, was killed. This tragedy makes me 
think of my own staff and the great work that they do each and every 
day for me, representing the people I was elected to represent.
  I join our entire country in continuing to pray for the recovery of 
our friend and colleague, Congresswoman Gabby Giffords. She is a 
hardworking and highly respected Member of this Chamber, and she is a 
true advocate for her home State.
  In 2008 I had the privilege of joining her in Tucson for a discussion 
on the need to improve mental health care for our servicemembers 
returning from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. I know she cares 
passionately about this issue as she does about so many other issues 
important to her constituents.
  May God bless Congresswoman Gabby Giffords, her family, her friends, 
and all those in Arizona who have been affected by this tragedy.
  Mr. DANIEL E. LUNGREN of California. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes 
to the gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Rigell).
  Mr. RIGELL. I thank my colleague from California.
  Madam Speaker, I rise in strong support of this resolution today.
  We gather here to remember the innocent people whose lives were cut 
tragically short by the horror that unfolded in Arizona on Saturday. We 
also gather to honor and pray for our colleague, Representative 
Giffords, and the others wounded in that attack.
  It was a real privilege for me to participate in the reading of the 
Constitution with Gabby, and I anxiously look forward to her return to 
the House floor.
  Joined by so many in Virginia's Second District, I offer my heartfelt 
condolences to all of those affected by this

[[Page H177]]

tragedy. I commend the citizens, the first responders, and the health 
care professionals who bravely worked to protect and save lives.
  We are blessed to live in a country where freedom and the opportunity 
to peacefully assemble and petition our elected officials, even at a 
grocery store, is a cherished right. We uphold that right today, and we 
stand united in condemning this senseless act of violence.
  My wife, Teri, joins me and all of this body in praying for those who 
lost their lives, for those who were wounded and their families.

  May God bless America and bring peace to America.
  Mr. BRALEY of Iowa. Madam Speaker, I am pleased to yield 2 minutes to 
the distinguished gentlewoman from Nevada (Ms. Berkley).
  Ms. BERKLEY. I thank the gentleman.
  Madam Speaker, I don't think there are enough words to express my 
feelings at this time, and I am sure the words that I have will never 
be adequate to truly share my grief with my colleagues and with our 
country.
  As with all of the Members of Congress, my thoughts and prayers are 
with those who lost loved ones in the aftermath of this senseless act 
of violence. My heart is hurting for those who were injured--some 
catastrophically, some still fighting for their lives.
  I love Gabby Giffords. I don't think there is a better example of a 
true public servant than this remarkable woman the country has gotten 
to know over the last few days. She is kind and caring and dedicated, 
and the very fact that she was doing her Congress on Your Corner just 4 
days from the time she was sworn in for another term gives you some 
idea of how dedicated she was to her job.
  While I watched in horror, like most of the country, and was riveted 
to my television set this weekend, I also couldn't help but marvel at 
those who rose above personal fear, who had the presence of mind and 
who, in spite of their own personal safety, tackled the perpetrator of 
this heinous crime; at the young intern who possibly saved Gabby's life 
by his medical attention to her; and at those who attended the wounded 
and comforted the bystanders. These are the true heroes in our 
country--the medical personnel, the hospital administrators and staff.
  The entire citizenry of Tucson has given us hope for our Nation as 
they have risen to this occasion and have demonstrated to the rest of 
us how good we are in times of trial.
  The SPEAKER pro tempore. The time of the gentlewoman has expired.
  Mr. BRALEY of Iowa. I yield the gentlewoman an additional 30 seconds.
  Ms. BERKLEY. I've gone through many stages of grief in the last few 
days. First, I was heartsick at the news. Then I was angry. And now I'm 
resolved.

                              {time}  1640

  I am going to do my own ``Congress on the Corner'' in honor of Gabby 
this coming Friday because nobody, no lone gunman, nobody can stop the 
democratic process and stop us from doing our job of interacting with 
our constituents.
  On behalf of myself and my family and the people that I represent 
from southern Nevada, I send our collective condolences to those people 
that have lost loved ones in Tucson. And our thoughts and prayers to 
the survivors. We wish them all Godspeed. God bless them, and God bless 
this great Nation.
  Mr. DANIEL E. LUNGREN of California. Madam Speaker, before I yield 2 
minutes to the gentleman from Iowa (Mr. Latham), I ask unanimous 
consent that the gentleman from California (Mr. Calvert) be allowed to 
control the balance of my time.
  The SPEAKER pro tempore. Without objection, the gentleman from 
California (Mr. Calvert) will control the time.
  There was no objection.
  Mr. LATHAM. I thank the gentleman from California for yielding.
  I rise today to join my colleagues in offering my prayers and 
condolences to the victims of Saturday's senseless violence in Tucson. 
To the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives or were 
injured, know that every Member of Congress and their staff stand with 
you today.
  This legislative body was designed to be a forum for the will of the 
American people, and Congresswoman Giffords has always met her 
constituents in accordance with that spirit. She and her staff members 
who accompanied her on that Saturday possessed a deep understanding 
that a Representative of the people's House must listen and remain as 
accessible as possible to the people.
  The citizens who lost their lives Saturday morning were exercising 
their patriotic duty to participate in the democratic process: a widely 
respected Federal judge; a dedicated church servant; a great 
grandmother who deeply believed in her country; a former secretary and 
homemaker; and a 9-year-old girl, herself a leader, getting an early 
glimpse of how our democracy works. And it is with an especially heavy 
heart that we mourn the loss of Gabe Zimmerman, a dedicated member of 
Congresswoman Giffords' staff and a member of this congressional 
community who was also a tireless servant to the people of Arizona's 
Eighth District. That those voices and lives were cut short is a 
national tragedy of the highest order.
  This is a heartbreaking moment in the history of the House of 
Representatives and our Nation, but we cannot allow this tragedy to put 
us on the defensive. We cannot retreat from our responsibilities to be 
accessible and responsive to the will of the American people.
  I look forward to the day when Congresswoman Giffords rejoins us in 
this Chamber. Until then, we can strive towards the lofty standard she 
has set. We can find inspiration in her steadfast commitment to those 
she serves, and we can draw strength from her unwavering belief in 
democracy.
  Mr. BRALEY of Iowa. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the 
distinguished gentleman from Rhode Island and Providence Plantations 
(Mr. Cicilline).
  Mr. CICILLINE. I thank the gentleman for yielding.
  Madam Speaker, I rise in support of this resolution and in honor of 
the victims and those left suffering as a result of last weekend's 
devastating tragedy in Arizona.
  In what can only be described as a brutal act of domestic terrorism, 
Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords, members of her staff, and other 
members of the Tucson community are now fighting for their lives. And 
six innocent others, including a 9-year-old little girl and the 
Congresswoman's director of community outreach, Gabe Zimmerman, gave 
the ultimate sacrifice in the exercise of our democracy.
  This tragedy gives us great pause as we begin the work of the 112th 
Congress and serves as a painful reminder that our democracy is built 
upon the ability of our citizens to participate fully in their 
democracy, and we must protect that. These have been tragic hours for 
our country, for those who lost loved ones, and for those who were 
injured and their families. On behalf of the people of the First 
District of Rhode Island and my colleague, Congressman Jim Langevin of 
the Second District, we send our sincerest condolences from our entire 
State to all those who have lost a loved one as a result of this 
hideous attack. We also extend our thoughts and prayers to 
Congresswoman Giffords, her staff and her constituents, all of whom 
were victims of this tragedy. And we pray that those injured have a 
speedy and full recovery.
  May God grant our Nation and all the victims peace and comfort. And 
may we renew our commitment to the ideals that have made America great, 
including the free exchange of ideas and a democracy that continues to 
listen carefully to the people we serve.
  Mr. CALVERT. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may 
consume.
  Last Saturday, Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords and many others were 
victims of a brutal and brazen attack as they participated in a 
Congress on Your Corner event. Six people were killed and many more 
were injured.
  Like many of my colleagues, I have had the pleasure to work with 
Representative Giffords and can attest that she is a thoughtful, kind, 
and wonderful person. My prayers are with her and her family as she 
begins the road to recovery.
  My thoughts are also with the families of those who were killed. No 
words can ease the pain of their families, and

[[Page H178]]

our country shares in the grief of six lives cut short. The goodness 
that Dorothy Morris, Judge John Roll, Phyllis Schneck, Dorwan Stoddard, 
Gabe Zimmerman, and 9-year-old Christina Taylor Green brought to this 
world will never be forgotten.
  It is during moments of tragedy that Americans forget our differences 
and unite around common goodness. We love our country and our 
countrymen. We will never let any one act or one individual deter us 
from living in freedom and without fear. As Members of Congress, we 
refuse to be cowed by senseless violence. Our duty is to our 
constituents, and we will fulfill that duty without reservation or 
hesitation.
  The lesson from last Saturday can be found in the courageous acts of 
strangers and neighbors who banded together amid violence to help 
others and confront a madman. Let us honor Representative Giffords' 
intern, David Hernandez, who did not hesitate to come to her aid, and 
three incredible Arizonans who, without regard for their own lives, 
tackled and subdued the attacker.
  Whatever the deranged purpose of the shooter, it has only served to 
strengthen our resolve and the greatness of our country and to marvel 
at the bravery and kindness of our fellow Americans, who without 
thought of their own safety acted in the face of evil. It is their 
stories of bravery that will be remembered and held up as an example of 
an exceptional nature of our great American character.
  As we move forward from this horrible event, let us keep the feelings 
of brotherhood and compassion that should not only exist in the wake of 
a tragedy, but in our everyday lives.
  God bless our dear friend, Gabby Giffords, all those who were 
injured, the families of the fallen, and God bless America.
  Madam Speaker, I yield the balance of my time to the gentleman from 
California (Mr. Daniel E. Lungren), and I ask unanimous consent that he 
be allowed to control that time.
  The SPEAKER pro tempore. Without objection, the gentleman from 
California may resume.
  There was no objection.
  Mr. BRALEY of Iowa. Madam Speaker, I am delighted to yield 2 minutes 
to the gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Andrews).
  (Mr. ANDREWS asked and was given permission to revise and extend his 
remarks.)
  Mr. ANDREWS. Madam Speaker, we are gathered here this afternoon to 
show respect and affection for our beloved colleague, Gabby Giffords, 
to mourn the dead, and to provide support for those wounded in body and 
in spirit.
  We also have a special responsibility here this afternoon to tell the 
truth about the nature of America. Our children and people all over the 
world saw acts of heinous violence on Saturday, and many think that 
that represents the true nature of America. We are here today to say it 
most emphatically does not.
  The true nature of America is not an evil, haunted person killing 
innocent people. The true nature of this country is the diligence of 
Gabrielle Giffords as she stood there listening to her constituents so 
patiently. The true nature of America is the optimism of a 9-year-old 
girl eager to become involved in the political process. The true nature 
of America is the ultimate act of selflessness as a long-term husband 
interposes his body between that and the bullets and saves the life of 
his beloved wife whom he met in grammar school.

                              {time}  1650

  The true nature of America is the skill and heroism of the young 
intern, 5 days in the service of Congresswoman Giffords, who rushed to 
her side and very likely saved her life with his skill.
  The true nature of America is the judiciousness and careful reasoning 
of the Federal judge who gave his life by happenstance on that day at 
that moment. The true nature of America is the three brave Arizonans 
who ran toward a man with a loaded gun who was firing away, threw their 
bodies at him and saved the lives of countless others around them.
  Saturday was a horrendous day, but let us be resolved that it will 
not be marked in history by the manifestation of evil that it 
represents, but by the manifestation of optimism and diligence and 
selflessness and goodness that truly reflect the spirit of the American 
people.
  May God bless our colleague and all those who suffered through this 
long nightmare.
  Mr. DANIEL E. LUNGREN of California. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes 
to the gentleman from Alabama (Mr. Aderholt).
  Mr. ADERHOLT. First of all, I would like to join in with my 
colleagues in condemning this act of violence and to express my deepest 
condolences to all of the families who were killed in the attack on 
January 8, 2011, in Tucson, Arizona.
  I join millions of others in praying for the recovery of all of those 
that were injured. Especially we pray for our colleague, the Honorable 
Representative Gabrielle Giffords. It has been my privilege and honor 
to work with her, especially on the well-being of this Nation's space 
program, and I pray for her full recovery and God's strength for her 
husband and her entire family.
  In a Nation where there is freedom, some individuals will choose to 
do evil, and certainly no law can cure the human heart. I do pray for 
the individuals who are suffering from anger, like those of the 
accused, that they will find the counseling and healing that they need.
  Actions like this, which include the tragic death of a 9-year-old 
child, are not normal.
  But even in tragedy we see the great strength of this Nation. We see 
the heroic actions of individuals, private and professional, who helped 
subdue the attacker and who helped the wounded survive. And we see a 
nationwide outpouring of concern and prayer for Gabby Giffords and all 
of those that were injured. And of course that rises far above 
political differences.
  May God bless the families and bless us in our work here this year in 
the 112th Congress.
  Mr. BRALEY of Iowa. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to another fine 
gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Pallone).
  Mr. PALLONE. Madam Speaker, earlier this afternoon many of us 
attended a congressional prayer service for the victims of the shooting 
in Arizona, and I just wanted to reflect on three things that occurred 
there that really were meaningful for me.
  One was after the prayer service, the staff of Gabby Giffords were 
gathered, and we had an opportunity to meet them and shake their hands 
and talk to them a little bit. And I was just taken aback, first of 
all, by how young they were and how optimistic they were, of course 
optimistic about her because they really feel and they're praying, and 
we all do, that she has a full recovery.
  But I can't help but reflect on the fact that not only the 
Congresswoman but her staff were so dedicated. I would often talk to 
Gabby on the floor oftentimes in the back of this room; and as many 
have said, she was wonderful. She was so enthusiastic about her job, 
about her constituents. She is also a beautiful person. And I was just 
so happy to hear that after the operation that they were optimistic 
about her recovery, and it seems like every day she gets better. So I'm 
really looking forward to her coming back here.
  And I want to pay tribute to her staff. I mean, obviously three of 
them were injured. One was killed. That person was killed, and all of 
them were facing the reality, unfortunately, that we do face now that 
when we do outreach, that there is a certain amount of danger. But I 
also think that it's really important for us to say that we are going 
to fight against that. We are going to continue to be out there meeting 
with our constituents, and we want people to come and meet with us.
  The second thing was the House Chaplain. At the prayer service today 
he said that the Arizona victims were essentially martyrs to the cause 
of America because they were out there participating in democracy. And 
I really think that that's true, that the need to participate and the 
democratic process is what this is all about. And to the extent that we 
reinforce that in the aftermath of this tragedy is really important.
  And the last thing I would say is some of the Members today, and 
particularly Ed Pastor when he spoke at the prayer service, he said 
that we

[[Page H179]]

have to be inspired to better the lives of others.
  The SPEAKER pro tempore. The time of the gentleman has expired.
  Mr. BRALEY of Iowa. I yield the gentleman an additional 30 seconds.
  Mr. PALLONE. And I noticed that the little girl, Christina Green, the 
one who unfortunately passed away, actually told her parents that she 
wanted to have a career that involved helping those less fortunate than 
her. And I think if there is anything that we can do in the aftermath 
of this tragedy, as Ed Pastor said at the prayer service, let us be 
inspired to better the lives of others. Let's try to make something 
positive of this tragedy.
  That little girl was so much in my heart when I heard about her and 
her wanting to have a career in public service and her being there at 
this outreach center because of that desire.
  Mr. DANIEL E. LUNGREN of California. Madam Speaker, I am very pleased 
to yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Stearns).
  Mr. STEARNS. I thank my distinguished colleague; and on behalf of 
myself and my constituents from the Sixth Constitution District in 
north-central Florida, we offer our thoughts and prayers to our 
colleague Gabrielle Giffords and her family.
  I also join the American people in extending our condolences to the 
other victims of this terrible event. This is a heartbreaking loss.
  But I'm encouraged by the positive news from her doctors. And I 
commend those medical professionals in Tucson for their dedication and 
outstanding work. Obviously, we look forward to Gabby coming back to 
the House floor. We miss her warm demeanor and her courageous 
qualities.
  In paying our respects to her and the others harmed and killed in 
this senseless act of violence, we must make it clear that we will not 
be deterred from meeting with the American people. The act of this 
deranged individual should not alter the routine duties of our office. 
I've had 560 town meetings in my district. I understand what it must be 
to remain accessible to my constituents. An attack on any single Member 
is an assault on this institution, and we must carry on in our 
commitment to an open and representative government.
  So I extend my best wishes to my colleague for a satisfactory and 
swift recovery. I also share my deepest sympathies with the families of 
the victims who were injured and killed in this incomprehensible act.
  Let me close with two Bible quotes, from Psalm 46:1, ``God is our 
refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble''; and 1 Peter 
3:14, ``But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are 
blessed. Do not fear what they fear. Do not be frightened.''
  Mr. BRALEY of Iowa. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the 
distinguished gentleman from Georgia (Mr. Johnson).
  Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of this 
resolution that recognizes the tragedy in Tucson on Saturday. I'm 
deeply shocked and saddened, and I'm praying for Gabby, her family, 
staff, and the other victims of this senseless act of violence.
  In times like these, words often fail to describe our anguish and 
pain. As a fellow Member of the class of 2006, I've gotten to know 
Congresswoman Giffords well and have developed enormous respect for her 
intellect and her love for this country.

                              {time}  1700

  She and I have served together on the House Armed Services Committee. 
And she was very gracious on the morning of President Obama's swearing 
in. She offered to share her blanket with me as we both braved the cold 
during the inauguration. We kept each other warm, and we had warm 
dialogue and happy moments.
  Gabby and her staff were performing a fundamental duty of a Member of 
Congress: That is listening to the concerns of her constituents. Our 
democracy depends on this type of open and informal meeting of elected 
officials and the people that they serve. We cannot let this cowardly 
act of violence prevent us from engaging with our constituents. I 
encourage my colleagues to take appropriate caution but to continue 
holding constituent meetings and do the job we were elected to do 
without fear. To do otherwise would allow the gunman a small taste of 
victory and would diminish our democracy and dishonor the victims of 
this senseless act.
  I look forward to Gabby's speedy recovery and to working with her on 
the Armed Services Committee again soon.
  And I would like to say a few words about Federal Judge John Roll, 
who lost his life on Saturday. Judge Roll was with Congresswoman 
Giffords the day of the shootings to press for funding to relieve 
overcrowding in his district.
  The SPEAKER pro tempore. The time of the gentleman has expired.
  Mr. BRALEY of Iowa. I yield the gentleman an additional 30 seconds.
  Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Judge Roll had been a lifetime servant of his 
community and his State, 63 years old. And as Justice John Roberts 
said, Judge Roll's death is a somber reminder of the importance of the 
rule of law and the sacrifices of those who work to secure it.
  Finally, I would like to recognize the other victims. I won't name 
them, and I do not know them personally, but I want to express my 
sympathy and condolences to their families.
  Mr. DANIEL E. LUNGREN of California. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes 
to the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Southerland).
  Mr. SOUTHERLAND. I thank the gentleman from California for yielding.
  Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of this resolution. The 
thoughts and prayers of Florida's Second Congressional District I 
deliver. Our hearts are broken over the events of Saturday. We want to 
deliver today our thoughts especially to those families who lost their 
loved ones, the six families who are today memorializing them and 
planning those details.
  I also want to make sure that I express my appreciation for the short 
time that I had a privilege of speaking with Representative Giffords. 
Last Thursday, shortly after we were sworn in, I walked just outside 
the floor. She met me outside, and she extended her hand to me. And she 
said, ``Hello, I am Gabby Giffords. You must be new.'' And I said, 
``Well, I am new. I am Steve Southerland.'' She goes, ``Where are you 
from, Steve?'' And I said, ``Florida.'' She said, ``Let me introduce 
you to some people that will help you.'' And she walked down the hall 
and out to the steps, and she introduced me to numerous, numerous floor 
staff. I did not have any other encounter with her except for that 5-
minute brief time.
  And on Saturday, when I learned of the events that had occurred in 
Tucson, it was with horror that I got home, and I turned on the 
television, and I realized that it was that wonderful, sweet person who 
with kindness and gentleness introduced me to the staff. And so it is 
with a burdened heart today that I want those in this Chamber and the 
people of America to know that the citizens of Florida's District Two 
are heartbroken as well. We are praying for each and every one 
affected.
  And I want to make sure that we go from here to continue, in honor of 
those who have given their lives and those who have been affected, to 
create a more perfect Union, that we work hard to secure the blessings 
of liberty. For that is how we will be known by the world. Not by our 
security, not by our policy, but by the civility, by the love we show 
and care for one another. That will make us a shining city on a hill. 
And that's what I am committed to doing.
  Mr. BRALEY of Iowa. Madam Speaker, I am pleased to yield 2 minutes to 
the distinguished gentleman from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts (Mr. 
McGovern).
  Mr. McGOVERN. Madam Speaker, I appreciate the opportunity to speak 
here today. As has been said over and over, Gabrielle Giffords is a 
smart, gifted, and compassionate Member of Congress. It is a privilege 
to be her colleague and friend. Arizona is privileged to be represented 
by a person of her caliber.
  My wife, Lisa, and I pray for her recovery. And our thoughts are with 
her, her family, her friends, and her community as they come together 
in the aftermath of this terrible act of violence. I look forward to 
seeing Gabby back here where she belongs, on this floor, advocating on 
behalf of her constituents.
  I served in this House for many years as a congressional aide. And 
since I've

[[Page H180]]

been elected to Congress, I've come to appreciate even more the 
generous and selfless service of our staffs. So I am especially touched 
and grieved by the murder of Gabe Zimmerman, who served as Gabby's 
director of community outreach.
  For those whose lives were lost--Christina Taylor Green, Dorothy 
Morris, Judge John Roll, Phyllis Schneck, and Dorwan Stoddard, who was 
related to one of my own staff, my sympathy, condolences, and prayers 
are with their families and loved ones.
  I believe so very strongly that we here in this House, and all of us 
as Americans, must come together and transform this tragedy into 
something positive and hopeful. We live in a country that is too 
polarized. And we live in a country where a culture of violence is all 
too common. If this horrible act of violence results in all of us 
becoming more civil to one another, in taking a more careful look at 
the words and imagery we use when talking to and about one another as 
we deal with difficult and controversial policy debates, if it results 
in concrete ways to begin to reverse this culture of violence, then our 
Nation will triumph over this pain and loss.
  Today is a time to grieve, to mourn, to express sympathy. But 
unfortunately, in the aftermath of this tragedy, too many of the old 
fights resurfaced. The left blamed the right, the right blamed the 
left, everybody blamed the media, op-eds were written, and bills were 
introduced. But Madam Speaker, none of that will bring back those who 
were lost. None of that will put a 9-year-old girl back at the 
breakfast table where she belongs.
  Like many of my colleagues, on Monday I participated in a national 
moment of silence. The best thing about that moment was that for just a 
minute or two the noise stopped. We paused and we reflected. And I hope 
that we can do more of that in the months and years ahead.
  Mr. DANIEL E. LUNGREN of California. Madam Speaker, it is my pleasure 
now to yield 2 minutes to the gentleman who has returned from New 
Mexico (Mr. Pearce).
  Mr. PEARCE. Madam Speaker, it's my distinct honor to rise today and 
call Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords not only a colleague, but a 
friend. I had the pleasure of working with this fine lady from Arizona 
on several initiatives, beginning very early in her first term. The 
districts that we serve are very similar, southern New Mexico, southern 
Arizona. We share the southern border. We have issues of public land, 
public access, resources. So many of our perspectives originate from 
the same sort of district.
  I got to know Gabby just in her first month here. In February, we 
went together to Iraq to visit soldiers. Together we would sit down and 
visit with young men and young women who were defending our country, 
who were fighting for the freedom of the Iraqis there. And we just grew 
a common bond in the service and the recognition of those who were 
serving in an even more difficult circumstance.
  We found the opportunities to work across the aisle on several issues 
just after we returned. And those are the strong memories that compel 
me today to stand up and say that I have grown to respect and admire 
the efforts of this courageous young woman as she served here in 
Congress.
  As we saw the unforeseeable and tragic circumstances of this past 
weekend, we realized that there are circumstances that face us all. And 
I would recognize right now that Gabrielle Giffords decided to do her 
job no matter the risk. She served with courage, determination, with 
openness and a forthrightness to her constituents that should be a 
model to all of us.
  I know that she is an inspiration for me today as she struggles to 
regain her health and to regain her position here serving the American 
people.
  I have been able to support many of Gabrielle Giffords' initiatives 
in the past. It's my privilege today to lend my support to this 
resolution. I pray for her speedy recovery and for the recovery of 
those injured on that fateful day. I pray for the comfort of those who 
lost loved ones. May God bless Gabrielle Giffords.
  Mr. BRALEY of Iowa. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the 
gentlewoman from New York (Mrs. Maloney).

                              {time}  1710

  Mrs. MALONEY. I thank the gentleman for yielding.
  Madam Speaker, like so many of my colleagues, I knew Gabby Giffords 
to be a warm and caring friend, a rising star in the House with a moral 
compass as sure as it is true. That is why she recently spoke out 
against the rising tide of hate speech in our country and the lack of 
civility in our political process.
  While it may be too early to come to any conclusions about the 
consequences of the recent and tragic events, it is never too late to 
reflect on lessons we have learned from earlier such tragedies and take 
them to heart.
  Guns kill. And those who glamorize gunplay do no service to humanity.
  Words matter. And those who use inflammatory rhetoric to achieve 
cheap political gain wound our country and weaken the ties that bind 
us.
  Democracy triumphs. The fundamental wisdom that has distinguished our 
Nation and led her to greatness resides in our unwavering commitment to 
settle our disputes with ballots, not bullets.
  My thoughts and prayers go out to Congresswoman Giffords--I hope for 
her swift and complete recovery--and to her family and to all the 
friends and family members of the victims of that tragic event.
  As we approach the observance of Martin Luther King Day, let us 
recall the words of Robert Kennedy that were said on that tragic day so 
many years ago, and I quote: ``Let us dedicate ourselves to what the 
Greeks wrote so many years ago: `to tame the savageness of man and make 
gentle the life of this world.' ''
  Get well soon, Gabby. We need your leadership, your strength, your 
courage. You are in our thoughts; you are in our prayers.
  Mr. DANIEL L. LUNGREN of California. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes 
to the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Platts).
  Mr. PLATTS. I thank the distinguished gentleman from California for 
yielding to me.
  Madam Speaker, I rise in humble and solemn support for House 
Resolution 32.
  I also rise to express my heartfelt gratitude to our distinguished 
Speaker, the gentleman from Ohio (Mr. Boehner), and all Members of the 
House leadership, Republican and Democratic alike. The thoughtful and 
compassionate manner in which they have united the Members of this 
great institution in prayerful support for our beloved colleague and 
friend, Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords, and all of the victims of the 
January 8 attack in Tucson, Arizona, is sincerely appreciated.
  Madam Speaker, as with all Americans, I was deeply saddened and 
horrified upon learning of the senseless and violent attack on 
Congresswoman Giffords, members of Gabby's staff, and citizens of 
Arizona's Eighth District. This act of violence was an unthinkable 
attack on a dedicated public servant and her constituents.
  It was also an attack on one of the most important cornerstones of 
our form of representational democracy--the duty of elected officials 
to reach out to the citizens they serve. It is imperative that we not 
allow the tragic events of January 8 to prevent elected officials from 
fulfilling this duty to remain in close contact with their constituents 
and well grounded in their concerns.
  On behalf of my wife, Leslie, and our family and all residents of 
Pennsylvania's 19th Congressional District, I offer our deepest 
sympathies to the families, the friends, and the coworkers of those who 
were taken from us in this attack. Please know that you and all the 
victims of this terrible tragedy are and will continue to be in our 
thoughts and prayers. May God watch over you as he continues to watch 
over our grieving Nation.
  Mr. BRALEY of Iowa. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the 
gentlewoman from Wisconsin (Ms. Baldwin).
  Ms. BALDWIN. I thank the gentleman for yielding.
  Madam Speaker, I rise to express my thoughts and offer my prayers and 
those of my constituents for my friend and colleague, Gabby Giffords, 
who lies critically wounded; and for her staffer, Gabe Zimmerman; for 
the precious patriot, Christina Taylor Green;

[[Page H181]]

for Dorothy Morris, Judge John Roll, Phyllis Schneck and Dorwan 
Stoddard, who lost their lives in this senseless tragedy; and to their 
families.
  Our thoughts and prayers, too, go out to the other innocent victims 
of this tragedy, including congressional staffers Ron Barber and Pamela 
Simon and their families, and our heartfelt gratitude to all those 
brave souls who responded valiantly and quickly, preventing even more 
death and injury. And to the people of Arizona, who love their State 
and our democracy, to you we express our solidarity.
  Gabby, as we all know, is one of the nicest, most decent, dedicated, 
concerned, and compassionate Representatives in this body. The fact 
that she and her staff were gunned down while doing their jobs, doing 
exactly what is required in a democracy, makes this tragedy even more 
unfathomable.
  And so I am concerned about the impact of this tragedy on our 
democracy. We cannot have a well-functioning democracy without ample 
interaction and discourse between members of the public and their 
elected officials.
  Directly or indirectly, this tragedy invites us to examine the way we 
conduct business on all levels. There is no question that political 
discourse has become toxic at times, and I hope that out of this 
tragedy comes a renewed commitment to civility.
  I applaud Speaker Boehner and Leader Pelosi for setting the right 
tone. We have a moment now to look prospectively at how we debate 
issues of great import.
  The SPEAKER pro tempore. The time of the gentlewoman has expired.
  Mr. BRALEY of Iowa. I yield the gentlewoman an additional 30 seconds.
  Ms. BALDWIN. I hope we seize this moment to come together as a 
Congress and ask, How can we bring renewed civility to consequential 
debate and create a new environment in which people can differ without 
demonizing others?
  People reach different conclusions about the important topics of our 
time, but each of us, like Gabby, seeks office because we want to make 
life better for the people we represent. We want a better America.
  Gabby, keep fighting the good fight. We need you and America needs 
you.
  Mr. DANIEL E. LUNGREN of California. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes 
to the gentlewoman from Tennessee (Mrs. Blackburn).
  Mrs. BLACKBURN. Madam Speaker, I, like our colleagues, am rising in 
sorrow today to address the events that occurred in Arizona this past 
weekend. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of those victims, with 
their families, and with our colleague, Gabby Giffords. She was doing 
what we all do--hearing the concerns of her constituents. And I think 
we all know and recognize that we in this Chamber are more visible and 
more accountable than ever before.
  On Saturday, a madman, a monster, attempted to assassinate our 
beloved colleague. She was shot in the line of duty, the duty of 
listening to, so that she could more effectively represent those 
constituents. It was a duty that she and many of us do love and do 
treasure that interaction with our constituents.
  Today, more so than ever, as Members of Congress are called to that 
duty, we realize that it goes with us wherever we go. Every trip to the 
grocery store, to church, to a soccer game, can turn into a town hall 
meeting. That accessibility to those who count on us to make the right 
decision is something that we cannot give up. Even though this past 
weekend's events have devastated us, we must not compound the tragedy 
by being deterred from those duties.
  The shooting occurred on Saturday, and on Sunday I kept a previously 
scheduled district appointment at Fort Campbell. That Army post is home 
to the 101st Airborne when they are not deployed, as they currently are 
in Afghanistan. These public servants know what the senseless loss of 
an honored friend, colleague, even a hero feels like. They also know 
better than anyone else that service is often most valuable when it is 
performed in the face of fear, uncertainty, or hostility.
  So many of my constituents have asked what will this mean for how we, 
as Members, carry out our jobs. I think we will all be more careful 
when we undertake our duties. We know we are responsible not only for 
our own safety; we are responsible for the safety of our staff, our 
constituents who bring issues to us. And in this, I hope our service 
does credit to the men and women in uniform.
  The SPEAKER pro tempore. The time of the gentlewoman has expired.
  Mr. DANIEL E. LUNGREN of California. I yield the gentlewoman an 
additional 30 seconds.

                              {time}  1720

  Mrs. BLACKBURN. I hope our service does credit to the men and women 
in uniform who have served us so very well. God bless Gabby Giffords, 
bless her staff, her constituents, the other innocent victims, bless 
this House and our great Nation.
  Mr. BRALEY of Iowa. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman 
from Texas (Mr. Doggett).
  Mr. DOGGETT. Our energetic and talented colleague Gabby Giffords was 
doing what she does so well, the core responsibility of every Member: 
listening to her constituents in an open public forum. Young and old, 
Americans of all political philosophies gathered to meet with her.
  This is the very type of neighborhood office hours that so many of us 
hold. I have held many of them throughout central Texas. And this is 
the very type of accessibility and openness that is fundamental to our 
democracy and critical to a society that recognizes that change is 
achieved through ballots, not bullets.
  Less than a year ago, another disturbed individual expressed his 
anger by crashing his airplane into a building in Austin, Texas, that 
housed IRS employees, causing great death and destruction. Incredibly, 
a Facebook page was erected quickly in his honor. What I said then I 
would reemphasize today: We must turn down the volume on hate to 
discourage more such horrors.
  Debate, vigorous debate, is at the very heart of our democracy. 
Sometimes it is heated and strongly worded. Such strong discourse helps 
us to set America's course. But violence is not discourse. It debases 
our democracy. Violence can kill a human being, but it cannot kill the 
truth. In a free and open market of ideas, truth will ultimately 
prevail.
  In the words of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., whose life and work we 
celebrate this very month, ``I believe that unarmed truth and 
unconditional love will have the final word in reality. That is why 
right, temporarily defeated, is stronger than evil triumphant.'' We 
pray for those lost and the many who still suffer from this great 
tragedy.
  Mr. DANIEL E. LUNGREN of California. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes 
to the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Fitzpatrick).
  Mr. FITZPATRICK. Madam Speaker, I rise today to humbly add my voice 
to the remarks made so eloquently by my colleagues.
  I had the honor of personally meeting Representative Giffords for the 
first time just last week, here in the Chamber; and although my service 
in the House has thus far only overlapped ever so briefly with hers, 
Gabby's attitude of service and spirit of commitment to those that she 
represents was immediately apparent.
  Representative Giffords was practicing one of the most basic and 
important duties that a Member of Congress will have, making herself 
available to constituents, when a gunman viciously and inexplicably 
attacked her and 19 others.
  It is difficult to find explanation for such a tragic event. And 
while an explanation will always elude us, we can find comfort in the 
prayer of a friend and constituent from my home district in 
Pennsylvania, Rabbi Ira Budow.
  Just this past Monday evening before a town hall meeting in Bucks 
County, Rabbi Budow prayed. He said, ``I pray that the disaster in 
Arizona serves as a wake-up call for our country and results in a more 
caring and loving atmosphere for us all. At the end of the day, we are 
all Americans and rise and fall together.''
  I'm proud to support the resolution.
  Mr. BRALEY of Iowa. Madam Speaker, I am happy to yield 2 minutes to 
the distinguished gentlewoman from Hawaii (Ms. Hirono).
  Ms. HIRONO. Madam Speaker, I rise to join my colleagues today in 
support of this resolution and associate myself with the eloquent and 
heartfelt expressions of condolences and comfort from

[[Page H182]]

my colleagues from both sides of the aisle. And hearing the wonderful 
stories about Gabby told on this floor help capture the warmth and 
humanity that is Gabby Giffords.
  The shock, horror, and tears that followed the unfolding of the 
terrible news from Arizona, it's like just yesterday. Here was Gabby, 
out on the first day after we finished votes to meet with her 
constituents at a Congress on your Corner, an event that many of us do 
in our own districts. She was joined by her dedicated staff and a large 
number of constituents who wanted to talk with her, including a third 
grader so excited to meet with her Congressperson, who had just been 
elected to an office in her elementary school.
  I send my condolences on behalf of all of the people of Hawaii to the 
families of those who lost loved ones in this senseless act of 
violence. And I'm going to say their names again because they must not 
be forgotten: John Roll, 63, chief judge for the U.S. District of 
Arizona; Gabriel Matthew Zimmerman, 30, Representative Giffords' 
director of community outreach; Christina Taylor Green, 9 years old, a 
beautiful and bright girl who should have had a chance for a full life; 
Dorothy Morris, 76, whose husband was critically injured trying to 
protect her during the shootings; Phyllis Schneck, 79, mother of three, 
grandmother of seven; Dorwan Stoddard, 76, who shielded his wife, Mavy, 
who was also wounded.
  Our prayers are with those who are struggling to recover from their 
injuries, including our dear friend and my classmate, Gabby, Gabby's 
husband, Mark Kelly, and all of the family members of the victims. We 
are all one family. As we say in Hawaii, ohana, united in our 
collective grief and prayers.
  The SPEAKER pro tempore. The time of the gentlewoman has expired.
  Mr. BRALEY of Iowa. I yield the gentlewoman 30 additional seconds.
  Ms. HIRONO. I thank the gentleman.
  The day before this terrible tragedy, Gabby had reached out to a 
friend of hers, Kentucky Secretary of State Trey Grayson, a Republican, 
to talk to him about ways that we all could tone down the political 
rhetoric and partisanship.
  At this point we don't know what drove the gunman to commit this 
horrible act of violence. Regardless of whether his actions have a 
causal connection with an increasingly negative tone of our political 
discourse, I think this tragedy should give us all pause to reflect. 
Just as we have all come together today to honor the victims of this 
tragedy, I believe we can honor Gabby by going forward with a 
heightened commitment to respect each other, listen to each other's 
points of view and come up with policies that will strengthen our 
Nation. We must go forward together. Mahalo nui loa.

  Mr. DANIEL E. LUNGREN of California. Madam Speaker, it is my 
privilege to yield 2 minutes to the gentlewoman from New York, Dr. 
Hayworth.
  Ms. HAYWORTH. Madam Speaker, I rise to honor the victims of 
Saturday's senseless and atrocious attack. Congresswoman Giffords and 
her staff are constantly in the thoughts and prayers of her colleagues 
in the House. And as a mother, I am most profoundly saddened by the 
loss of the youngest victim, Christina Taylor Green. Christina was only 
9 years old.
  She belonged to history at the beginning of her life, and she belongs 
to history at the end of her life. She was born on September 11, 2001; 
and Christina was acutely aware of the impact that day had on our 
Nation. But she always found the positive and hopeful in that dreadful 
event. She would often tell people she was born on a holiday, and she 
said it was a holiday because it gave hope to say that and people came 
together on that day. She wore red, white, and blue; and she was vocal 
about her patriotism and her pride to be an American.
  And in addition to being extremely patriotic, Christina was an 
inquisitive and mature young lady who had recently taken an interest in 
the most fundamental of American rights, civic engagement. She had just 
been elected to her own student government, and she was attending 
Saturday's event to meet her Congresswoman and learn more about 
government.
  As we grieve for her loss, it is important to pay tribute to the 
model young citizen Christina was and for us to honor her memory. As 
adults, we can all learn from Christina's positive outlook on life, 
love of country, and participation in government.
  Even during these very dark and painful times, we should take solace 
in knowing that with children like Christina growing up in our society, 
our Nation has a bright future.

                              {time}  1730

  Mr. BRALEY of Iowa. Madam Speaker, I am delighted to yield 2 minutes 
to the gentlewoman from California (Mrs. Capps).
  Mrs. CAPPS. I thank my colleague from Iowa.
  Madam Speaker, I rise to express my strong support for H. Res. 32, a 
resolution to honor Gabby Giffords as she recovers from her injuries, 
to pay tribute to those who lost their lives, and to thank those who 
helped the injured and prevented further loss of life.
  This is a devastating and emotional week for all of us here in 
Congress, for our staff, and for America as a whole. The senseless and 
atrocious loss of life in Tucson has infringed upon our sense of safety 
and decency. It has also left us grieving for a colleague, for her 
staff, and for the six Americans who lost their lives last Saturday, as 
recited by my colleague from Hawaii just now.
  Representative Giffords--Gabby to so many of us--is truly a treasured 
Member of this body. She is a gifted legislator, frequently leading her 
colleagues on issues like solar energy, space endeavors, veterans 
health care, and comprehensive immigration reform. But Gabby is also 
known around Capitol Hill as a smart, generous, and unfailing dedicated 
public servant and friend. She is the one who would be helping to plan 
a baby shower for one of her colleagues, to reach across the aisle to 
lend a supportive hand to a colleague in need of advice or a laugh, to 
take time to offer a hand to a staffer after a long day at work.
  I also think of Gabby as a unique and all-too-rare representative in 
this Congress. She prefers considerate and detailed debate over harsh 
and angry rhetoric. She chooses her words thoughtfully, and has spoken 
out against violent language and the consequences such careless acts 
create.
  So I would argue if we really want to pay tribute to Gabby here 
today, may her service not be an exception to the rule. We in this 
Chamber have the opportunity to live every day by the words we are 
speaking today.
  Madam Speaker, the sorrow and grief of Saturday's tragedy will echo 
for many years to come. As we pray and take stock of this tragedy, I am 
also concerned by the ease with which a clearly troubled young man 
could obtain a firearm. And I believe that this incident also 
illuminates a serious gap in our mental health system, one where far 
too many ill people slip through the cracks. The price for these 
failings is all too often paid, as in this case, by friends and 
neighbors. We owe it to the victims of this horrific tragedy to improve 
our mental health system.
  The SPEAKER pro tempore. The time of the gentlewoman has expired.
  Mr. BRALEY of Iowa. I yield the gentlewoman an additional 30 seconds.
  Mrs. CAPPS. We owe it to the victims of this horrific tragedy to 
improve our mental health system; and, in addition, to address gun 
violence. We can do better. Let us resolve to do so. Like everyone here 
and countless at home, I am praying for Gabby's swift recovery, for her 
constituents who lost their lives, and for our country.
  Let us adopt this resolution today in honor of our beloved friend 
Gabby and the victims of this senseless tragedy.
  Mr. DANIEL E. LUNGREN of California. Madam Speaker, at this time I do 
not believe I have any other speakers. I reserve my time to close.
  Mr. BRALEY of Iowa. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman 
from California (Mr. Sherman).
  Mr. SHERMAN. We come together today as a Nation to mourn those who 
died in Arizona and to pray for the full recovery of those still lying 
in hospital beds in Tucson.
  Gabby Giffords has captured the love and admiration of this entire 
country as America has come to know her through news reports, just as 
we have come to know her over the last 4 years as the most delightful 
and engaging Member of this House, and as a woman who brought 
intelligence and

[[Page H183]]

determination to the service of this country.
  The last time I had a chance to spend time with Gabby was just 6 days 
ago. We were here on the House floor. As it happens, we sat next to 
each other as we waited our turn to be assigned a portion of the 
Constitution to be read. We had a chance to listen to each passage, to 
speak briefly about some of the salient provisions. And as they got 
down the line to where we were sitting, it became apparent that Gabby 
would be called upon to read the First Amendment to the Constitution, 
and that I would be called upon to read the considerably less august 
Third Amendment.
  For just a selfish instant, I wondered why luck couldn't have been 
just a little different. If we had been sitting just one seat over, 
then I could have stood here and talked about freedom of religion and 
freedom of speech. But providence had determined otherwise, had 
determined that Gabby Giffords should stand on this floor and have the 
honor of reading the First Amendment, an amendment that is best known 
for its earlier clauses but which ends with the words that enshrine the 
right of the people peaceably to assemble and to petition the 
government for a redress of grievances.
  The day after she read those words at this podium, she flew home to 
Arizona so she could stand in front of a Safeway, intending to meet 
people peaceably assembled, and listen to people petition for a redress 
of their grievances.
  The SPEAKER pro tempore. The time of the gentleman has expired.
  Mr. BRALEY of Iowa. I yield the gentleman an additional 30 seconds.
  Mr. SHERMAN. I was relieved yesterday when doctors said that they 
were confident that the assassin had not taken Gabby's life. And I am 
confident that that assassin did not take from our people the right to 
peaceably assemble and to tell their elected representatives their 
ideas and, yes, their grievances.
  I look forward to 2 years from now and 2 years after that and 2 years 
after that, to sitting here on this floor with Gabby and waiting until 
she is called upon to read the First Amendment.
  Mr. DANIEL E. LUNGREN of California. Madam Speaker, contrary to my 
previous statement, I do have another speaker. At this time I would 
like to yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from Tennessee, Dr. Roe.
  Mr. ROE of Tennessee. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of this 
resolution, and I join my colleagues in denouncing the horrific attack 
that occurred against one of our own this past weekend, and took the 
lives of six innocent people, including a staff member, Gabe Zimmerman, 
and a beautiful 9-year-old child. We continue to pray for Congresswoman 
Giffords and all those injured, and the families of the deceased.
  As Members of Congress we have two responsibilities after such an 
attack. First, we must vow that we will never let the work of a madman 
stop us from doing our work on behalf of the American people. Secondly, 
we will make it clear to all that while we have disagreements, we are 
all still Americans, and we respect each other. Words matter. When we 
show Americans that we can disagree substantively and respectfully, we 
bring our entire country closer together and show the world why America 
is the greatest force for good.
  There is a song Sarah McLachlan sings, ``Angel''--we place them in 
the arms of angels. And may God bless this family and these people who 
endured this horrific event.
  Mr. BRALEY of Iowa. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman 
from Virginia (Mr. Moran).
  Mr. MORAN of Virginia. Madam Speaker, Gabby Giffords is a wonderful 
human being and a treasured colleague and friend. But this resolution, 
as important and appropriate as it is, stops short of any collective 
commitment to prevent this type of tragedy from happening again. It 
happened because of a combustible mix of: one, a highly charged, 
antigovernment political environment; two, easy access to weapons whose 
only purpose is to kill large numbers of human beings; and, three, 
mental illness.
  Not too long ago, another mentally ill person used the same kind of 
weapon to kill 32 innocent people on the Virginia Tech campus. In 
response we passed legislation eventually that enabled States to 
provide the names of people that they judged were too mentally 
imbalanced to be buying guns and provide those names to the National 
Instant Criminal Background Check system. We authorized $250 million to 
enable them to do that. But since then, we have appropriated each year 
less than 10 percent of that amount. As a result, of the 2.6 million 
people that the States know should be disqualified from buying 
firearms, less than 20 percent are actually on that list and so 
disqualified. In fact, less than 4 percent of Arizonans who the State 
knows should be disqualified from purchasing firearms are actually on 
that list and unable to purchase those firearms.

                              {time}  1740

  So perhaps we could consider following up on this resolution with 
some concrete steps to prevent this from happening again. I know it is 
important to protect one's individual freedoms, but a little 9-year-old 
girl should also have the freedom to visit with her Congresswoman, 
secure in the knowledge that her Congress has the courage to take 
reasonable steps to protect her and our country from such senseless 
violence.
  Mr. DANIEL E. LUNGREN of California. I reserve the balance of my 
time.
  Mr. BRALEY of Iowa. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman 
from Connecticut (Mr. Courtney).
  Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, the horror of Saturday's bloodshed in 
Arizona, the senseless loss of life, and the cowardly attack on Gabby 
Giffords has for many Americans raised the question of whether we as a 
Nation have lost our way. Many wonder, if an act so benign as Gabby's 
effort to listen to her neighbors in the Eighth Congressional District 
of Arizona can be the target of such violence, whether there is hope 
and a future for our democracy.
  One voice from our recent past suggests there is still hope for that 
fragile ideal. On April 4, 1968, Senator Robert Kennedy spoke in 
Indianapolis, Indiana, shortly after the slaying of Martin Luther King 
at a time when political violence wracked our Nation. This is what he 
said:
  ``We have to make an effort in the United States. We have to make an 
effort to understand, to get beyond these difficult times.''
  He then said, ``My favorite poem was Aeschylus, and he once wrote, 
`Even in our sleep, pain which cannot forget falls drop by drop upon 
the heart, until, in our own despair, against our will, comes wisdom 
through the awful grace of God.' ''
  He concluded that what we need in the United States is not division. 
What we need is not hatred. What we need is not violence and 
lawlessness. It is love and wisdom and compassion toward one another.
  Gabby Giffords' work at that Tucson shopping mall on January 8 and 
all those present and all those victimized by a coward's bullets were 
affirming Senator Kennedy's vision that peaceful dialogue and 
understanding is the true calling of the American people, not division 
and violence.
  As one who entered Congress with Gabby in the class of 2006--a tight-
knit group that has met every Wednesday over the last 4 years--it has 
been an honor to watch her on the Armed Services Committee, advocating 
for the Air Force and for military families. Even during the lame duck 
session, she was a leader in enacting the GI Bill Patch, which will 
make sure that the Guard and reservists will not be left out from the 
GI Bill's educational benefits. She is an extraordinary person this 
country needs if we are going to overcome the many challenges that we 
face today.
  Madam Speaker, I strongly support passage of this resolution, which 
is an affirmation that we will not surrender our way of life to the 
forces of lawlessness and hate.
  On behalf of the people of eastern Connecticut, I want to express our 
awe and reverence to the examples of human courage and excellence which 
Gabby Giffords and the other victims in Tucson displayed to the world 
last Saturday.
  Mr. DANIEL E. LUNGREN of California. I continue to reserve the 
balance of my time.
  Mr. BRALEY of Iowa. Madam Speaker, I am proud to yield 2 minutes to 
the gentlewoman from the District of Columbia (Ms. Norton).

[[Page H184]]

  Ms. NORTON. I thank the gentleman for yielding.
  Madam Speaker, a gunman has underestimated the will and undaunted 
bravery of Gabby Giffords.
  Tragically, we have lost Gabe Zimmerman, her director of community 
outreach; her constituents; Judge John Roll; Christina Taylor Green; 
Phyllis Schneck; Dorwan Stoddard; and Dorothy Morris, all of whom were 
engaged in the very civic activities we most encourage, along with 13 
others who were injured along with Congresswoman Giffords.
  Together, these Americans have brought this House together as never 
before for a much needed time of reflection. I am heartbroken for all 
who were in the line of fire and for their families.
  I focus now on Gabby because I cannot get her out of my 
consciousness. I am trying to understand her prescient fearlessness of 
her own safety in the days before the attempt on her life given what 
has happened to civil discourse in our country.
  Can Gabby's selflessness and her concerns for our country give us the 
fortitude to follow her example in assuming that it is not the safety 
of Members that is at risk? Do we dare follow Gabby in her search for 
ways to be at once resolute and respectful?
  Remarkable courage and determination have made Gabrielle Giffords the 
living manifestation of what Members of this institution and the 
citizens of our great country want to be. May Gabby Giffords' words 
prove as contagious as her courage.
  Mr. DANIEL E. LUNGREN of California. I continue to reserve the 
balance of my time.
  Mr. BRALEY of Iowa. Madam Speaker, I am pleased to yield 2 minutes to 
the distinguished gentleman from Maryland (Mr. Cummings).
  Mr. CUMMINGS. I thank the gentleman for yielding.
  Madam Speaker, like every speaker today, I rise with a very heavy 
heart. Our friend Gabrielle Giffords lies in a hospital bed, fighting 
desperately for her life.
  At the same time, dozens are in mourning for those killed in the 
senseless slaughter, including Judge John Roll and our own Gabe 
Zimmerman--Congresswoman Giffords' director of public outreach.
  We join them in a grieving process that is painful beyond words.
  To those families, particularly that of Gabe's, who reached out in 
Gabby's voice each and every day, we weep for your loss and know of the 
constant ache left in your hearts by the sudden loss of those you 
loved, and we are blessed to join you in the celebration of their 
lives.
  As we mourn those who were lost, we triumph, with equal emotion, in 
miracles. By the mercy of God and the swift hands of our medical 
heroes, Gabrielle Giffords and many of those wounded by this madman 
have been saved.
  When I heard of this tragedy, I immediately asked the question that 
each of us here must have wondered dozens of times: How could anyone 
hate or seek to harm this wonderful public servant, this beautiful 
person, who has never spoken a cross word or shown a 
downcast expression throughout her time in this great House?

  Though these answers are painfully slow in coming, I pray her return 
to the warm embrace of her family will be swift.
  More selfishly, because she is my friend and because I see in her the 
pure heart of a servant, I pray she will return to this Chamber as soon 
as possible to continue her work for the people of Arizona, whom she so 
treasures. Gabby knows at her core that she is an ordinary lady called 
to an extraordinary mission.
  Gabby, you are a champion among champions, a friend among friends, 
and a fighter among fighters for the common good. We are all pulling 
for you. Get well soon. We can't wait to have you back.
  Mr. DANIEL E. LUNGREN of California. I continue to reserve the 
balance of my time.
  Mr. BRALEY of Iowa. I yield myself such time as I may consume.
  Madam Speaker, this body is numb.
  We forget that we are a family, a dysfunctional family at times, but 
that we are a family. We all get to know each other, and we all have a 
common passion for the values of this country, values that brought us 
here in the first place. That is a remarkable story that we have heard 
unfolding about our good friend Gabby Giffords since this horrible 
tragedy first took place.
  All of us in this body share a unique sense of responsibility for 
what happened to our dear friend, to her courageous staff and to the 
incredible people who showed up to participate in democracy at that 
Safeway in Tucson on Saturday. I know that a lot of us had this shared 
experience of horror on Saturday as we watched these horrible images 
appear in front of our eyes.
  I want to briefly talk about my good friend Gabby.
  It is ironic that on this day when our President is in Tucson, 
honoring the memory of those who lost their lives and those struggling 
to put their lives back together, that my connection with Gabby and 
President Obama go back to the exact same day. It was September 29 of 
2006. Gabby and I were both candidates for Congress. We met at an 
event, and there were things about her that leaped off the page 
immediately.

                              {time}  1750

  It was her passion for why she was running, it was her fearlessness, 
and it was that smile that you've heard people talking about that could 
light up a room.
  We got to talking about each other and what we had in common; and I 
learned that her brother, Alex Giffords, had been a place kicker at 
Iowa State University, where I graduated from college and where I was 
an unknown walk-on under Earl Bruce. And we talked about that. And I 
have in my office this little print of Beardshear Hall at Iowa State 
University that my friend Gabby gave to me that she got from her 
brother Alex because she knew this was important to me. This little 
picture is an emblem of what an amazing human being Gabby Giffords is 
because she was always thinking more of her friends than she was of 
herself.
  I got on a red eye after first meeting Gabby Giffords and flew back 
to my district and met an unknown Senator from Illinois who had just 
gotten elected named Barack Obama for the very first time. That's what 
is great about this country is these random meetings that we have with 
amazing people from all over the country who we meet on the House 
floor, many of whom came in in one of the largest classes in recent 
memory. You heard them come to the floor today and talk about someone 
they barely knew or may have met briefly or didn't know at all, because 
that is what binds us together is the spirit, the history of this 
Chamber and what it has meant as the people's House.
  That is why it is incumbent on all of us to take away as a lesson 
from this tragedy a renewed sense of respect for each other and for the 
common purpose that brought us all here together in the first place.
  I talked about how we are a family. Every Thanksgiving our family has 
a tradition of watching a movie called ``Home for the Holidays'' about 
a very dysfunctional family. The star of that movie is Holly Hunter. In 
one of the closing moments of this movie--which like all good movies 
makes you laugh, makes you cry and makes you think--Holly Hunter's 
father is down in the basement watching old home movies and he's 
talking to her about one moment in his life that took 5 seconds and 
made all the difference in the world in his relationship with his 
daughter. And he said, You were fearless, huh? Fearless.
  That is my friend, Gabby Giffords. She is fearless in what makes this 
job worth having. That is why we have a responsibility--to her and all 
the people who lost their lives and who showed up at that town hall 
meeting because they care about this country--to make a difference 
going forward in how we talk to each other and how we care about each 
other.
  As we look forward to next Monday, we should remember what Martin 
Luther King, Jr. taught us, that ``the moral arc of the universe is 
long, but it bends toward justice.'' We have a collective duty, all of 
us, to make sure that we bend that arc sooner and quicker so that the 
American people realize that we are all in this together and that this 
is the people's House for a reason.
  I want to thank my Republican colleagues for their extreme 
sensitivity

[[Page H185]]

and their devotion to this important resolution, and I thank my 
colleague from California for helping us put this resolution together 
today.
  Madam Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.
  Mr. DANIEL E. LUNGREN of California. Madam Speaker, I yield myself 
such time as I may consume, and I rise in enthusiastic support of H. 
Res. 32.
  Madam Speaker, I am privileged and humbled to be able to close out 
this debate. I am not, as some who have come to the floor, a close 
personal friend of Gabby Giffords; but I have, as have others, been 
under her spell here. I have had the chance to talk with her on several 
occasions in an informal setting, and I might mention that on each of 
those occasions she reminded me that she used to be Republican. I don't 
know if that was her way of thinking that maybe we could have a 
rapport--you didn't really need that with her because of her openness 
and her smile, but it was interesting. She always did it with a smile, 
and she always did it with an invitation to engage with her that is the 
mark of her.
  We pray, all of us together, that she and those others grievously 
wounded will have a speedy and full recovery. We pray for those who 
have lost their lives. We pray for this institution, that we will take 
the correct lessons out of this tragedy. And when I use the word 
``tragedy,'' it is a tragedy on the side of those who were attacked and 
the institution that was attacked. It is, however, the product of a 
criminal act, and we should understand that.

  Madam Speaker, it is always within our power to either take the 
proper lessons from a particular incident or to discard them, to think 
deeply about them or think of them superficially. I believe that the 
fact that we have dedicated this entire day to trying to find the right 
lessons out of that and to give proper respect to those who suffered in 
this tragedy is evidence of the fact that we will attempt to take the 
proper lessons out of this.
  One is, of course, that this is the people's House. If you read the 
Constitution, article I, it is clear that the House of Representatives 
is meant to be the closest to the people of any of the Federal 
institutions. We all, in a real sense, no matter where we come from, 
are institutionalists in that we love this institution--we fought in 
many ways to get here--but we honor one another by showing respect to 
one another and we honor our constituents as well.
  Speaker Boehner has said, ``An attack on one is an attack on all.'' 
That is true. Perhaps several hundred years ago the writer and the 
poet, John Donne, said it best. He said, ``No man is an island, entire 
of itself. Every man is a piece of the continent, a part of the main. 
If a clod be washed away by the sea, Europe is the less, as well as if 
a promontory were, as well as if a manor of thy friend's or of thine 
own were; any man's death diminishes me, because I am involved in 
mankind. And, therefore, never send to know for whom the bell tolls; it 
tolls for thee.''
  Mr. RUSH. Madam Speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I rise this 
morning to pay tribute to my esteemed colleague from the great state of 
Arizona, U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, who with God's grace is still 
alive and appears to be heading toward a promising recovery. I am 
grateful to God for His divine intervention in the lives of those 13 
other victims who, along with Rep. Giffords, were shot last Saturday at 
a shopping mall in Rep. Giffords' Tucson, Arizona district. Right now, 
news accounts indicate that those 13 people will survive their 
injuries.
  But, Madam Speaker, six people, including a nine-year-old girl, did 
not survive last Saturday's gunfire by a young man who, by every 
account, is clearly mentally unbalanced. It is my opinion that under no 
set of circumstances should the gunman have been able to purchase a 
handgun with a 30-round magazine. That young man was able to wreak all 
this havoc in a matter of a few minutes before several courageous 
Americans rose to the occasion as they quickly wrestled the assailant 
to the ground.
  Today, however, is a day to honor the tragic loss of life that took 
place last Saturday and to also pray for the continued strength and 
full recovery of Rep. Giffords and the others who survived.
  Rep. Giffords is a brilliant woman who represents the best of what a 
Member of this body should be. She keeps an abiding focus on serving 
her constituents and, last Saturday, she was in the midst of an open 
air forum, ``Congress on Your Corner,'' where she and her staff had 
assembled a portable congressional office to, literally, take the best 
of their legislative and constituent service ability directly to the 
people who elected her to serve. Mr. Speaker, last Saturday, Rep. 
Giffords and her staff were operating in the best traditions of this 
Congress and in the best traditions of our democracy. That is why it 
still seems incredible to me that Americans as diverse as nine-year-old 
Christina Taylor Green to 79-year-old Phyllis Schneck, a mother of 
three and grandmother of seven, should come to this public forum only 
to lose their lives to a deranged assailant with a gun.
  This simply should not happen in our country but, sadly, far too 
often it does.
  Madam Speaker my prayers and support remain with Rep. Giffords and 
her husband, Captain Mark Kelly, a NASA astronaut, their family and the 
team of medical professionals and first responders who have done an 
amazing job in helping Rep. Giffords and the other survivors to 
continue to improve. I also extend my condolences to the six Americans 
who lost their lives that day including Gabriel Zimmerman, Rep. 
Giffords' community outreach director, who lost his life in the midst 
of serving his community.
  At another day and at another time I will amplify my voice and 
advocacy in a manner that I hope will make a dent in the wanton 
proliferation and availability of guns in our society to those who 
clearly should not have them. But, for now, I wish God's peace and 
healing power upon Gabby Giffords and the other survivors of this 
tragic event.
  I also pray for our President and for our Nation as we assemble in a 
spirit of community tonight, in Tucson, in a national service of prayer 
and reflection for the victims of this tragedy and for our Nation.
  Mr. ROTHMAN of New Jersey. Madam Speaker, I rise today to join my 
colleagues in recognizing my friend, Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords, 
members of her staff, and other victims of the senseless attack which 
took place on January 8, 2011 in Tucson, Arizona.
  Gabby is kind, brilliant, beautiful, charming, intellectually 
curious, honest, and a powerful presence. She is truly one of the most 
amazing people I've met in my life. She is devoted to public service 
for all the right reasons--to make America stronger, safer, better-
educated and to protect America from its enemies. She is thoroughly 
dedicated to her district and selflessly serves her constituents. Her 
constituents, even those who do not always share her political views, 
respect her for being ready to help them and fight for what is right. I 
know my colleagues on both sides of the aisle recognize her as a person 
of great integrity who fights tirelessly for her principles.
  Madam Speaker, my thoughts at this time are with my friend Gabby. We 
are all hoping and praying for her complete recovery, as well as for 
the families of those who were killed and those who were wounded and 
are struggling to recover. Violence and threats have no place in our 
democracy.
  Mr. GERLACH. Madam Speaker, I stand united today with my colleagues 
and our nation as we remember those killed and wounded during the 
shootings on Saturday in Tucson, Arizona.
  To the families, loved ones and friends of those who suddenly and 
senselessly lost their lives, I join my colleagues in extending our 
most sincere condolences and hope that they find comfort during these 
extremely difficult days.
  To those still recovering in the hospital, including our respected 
colleague and dedicated public servant Gabrielle Giffords, we offer our 
prayers for healing of the physical and emotional wounds inflicted 
during this unprovoked and despicable attack.
  We also stand united today in expressing our deepest gratitude to all 
who demonstrated true courage and extraordinary heroism in that grocery 
store parking lot to prevent more lives from being lost and provide 
care for their neighbors in need.
  Lives were lost and forever changed in an instant on Saturday. The 
anguish and sorrow will linger much longer.
  That is why it is important to solemnly honor the memories of the 
victims of this dark day and, as the resolution we are voting on today 
states, reaffirm our belief in a democracy in which all can participate 
and in which intimidation and threats of violence cannot silence the 
voices of any American.
  Mr. CARDOZA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to say a few words honoring 
my friend and colleague, Rep. Gabrielle Giffords.
  I first came to know Gabby when she joined the Blue Dog Coalition, a 
group of moderate, fiscally conservative Democrats of whom I have 
served as co-chairman.
  I came to know--and admire--Gabby more when I travelled to her 
district in southern Arizona to host a town hall on agriculture with 
her.
  As all who have met her know, Gabby is a bright, energetic young 
woman who is deeply committed to public service. That inner

[[Page H186]]

strength will no doubt carry her through this tragedy and to a full 
recovery.
  As painful as it may be too admit, this tragedy was not unexpected. 
Gabby's office had been the target of violence before.
  And, as all of us who have held public events over the past few years 
know, the anger and vitriol has been escalating.
  Sadly, it was only a matter of time before hateful speech turned to 
hateful action.
  Passionate public debate is essential to our democracy. It is what 
our founders fought and died for, and it is what made the United States 
unique among nations at our birth.
  But we must maintain respect and civility in our discussions. Elected 
officials have a responsibility to set an example and behave like 
statesmen.
  The media have a responsibility to encourage debate, without feeding 
the flames of anger.
  And the public has a responsibility to stand up and be strong voices 
in our democracy, without degrading the debate into petty name-calling.
  As one of my colleagues said recently about a verbal attack made 
against him, ``It's not what you meant to say that matters, or even how 
I understand it. What matters is how your words are interpreted by the 
least sane person in my district.''
  I look forward to the day--hopefully soon--when we will see Gabby 
back on this floor, fighting for her constituents in southern Arizona.
  Until then, instead of pointing fingers and playing the blame game, 
let's take this tragedy as an opportunity to return civility to our 
democracy.
  Mr. TIERNEY. Madam Speaker, I join my colleagues in supporting this 
resolution. On behalf of the hundreds of thousands of residents and 
families I represent in Massachusetts, I respectfully offer my deepest 
sympathies and condolences to the families, friends and loved ones of 
those who were killed last Saturday in Tucson, Arizona. I want to 
express my support for those who were injured. Let's hope their 
recovery is swift.
  Our focus right now must remain on honoring the lives that were lost 
and the lives that will never be the same as a result of this 
unspeakable attack. However, as we turn to each other, seek solace and 
mourn, we cannot lose sight of the fact that extraordinary heroism and 
selfless courage could be found amid the horror of that day. The worst 
of tragedies brought out the best of humanity, as it so often does. 
There were men and women of all ages, who, in some cases, were injured 
themselves, shielding children from harm, tending to the injured, and 
apprehending the gunman. All of them put their own lives at risk to 
help save others.
  I'd also like to convey the heartache and concern of my 
constituents--and all Americans--for my colleague, Congresswoman 
Gabrielle Giffords. As so many have noted, Gabby is a smart and 
honorable member of Congress, but even more so, she is a great person--
a warm, caring, thoughtful, and a hard-working public servant who 
strives and succeeds in making a real difference for the people and 
community she represents. Our hearts go out to Gabby's husband, Mark 
Kelly, her parents and family, and her dedicated staff in Washington 
and Arizona.
  It is well-known now that this shooting occurred while Congresswoman 
Giffords was conducting a ``Congress on Your Corner'' event, which 
gives her constituents an opportunity to meet directly with her and 
raise issues or ask questions of concern. All of us conduct events like 
this in some form as often as we can because it is such a fundamental 
aspect of our job. As Speaker Boehner said last week, ``this is the 
people's House.'' Moving forward, even in this time of grief and 
sadness, I believe it is important to keep it that way. Rather than 
inappropriately increasing the barriers between us and those who we 
represent, we must stay committed to engaging in precisely the kind of 
activities that Congresswoman Giffords and her staff undertook last 
Saturday. We must continue to travel around our communities and be in 
contact with those we represent. We must be more accessible, not less.
  Madam Speaker, as we struggle to make sense of these horrific events, 
one thing remains perfectly clear to all of us in public life: this 
type of incident cannot be condoned--and our accessibility to our 
constituents cannot be curtailed--if our nation is to endure as a 
democratic republic.
  Before I close, I again wanted to join my colleagues in remembering 
all the victims and rededicating ourselves to the enduring American 
values which Congresswoman Giffords and her staff embody: openness, 
accessibility, and a sincere commitment to serve those who we 
represent.
  Mr. McKEON. Madam Speaker, I rise today to join the entire House 
Armed Services family in my shock and sadness at the shooting of 
Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords and members of her staff. The tragic 
events that occurred this past Saturday give us all reason to come 
together and reflect on the frailty of human life--my thoughts and 
prayers go out to Gabby, to her family, and to all the victims of this 
heinous crime. Violent acts of this nature have no place in our 
democratic society, and it is my hope that justice will be swift for 
those who perpetrated this attack.
  I spoke with Gabby just before the holidays and am reminded of her 
tireless efforts to work across party lines in representing Arizona's 
8th Congressional District, as well as her unwavering support for our 
men and women in uniform. Today we rise to honor the service of 
Representative Giffords and offer our thoughts and prayers for her, her 
family, and all victims of this attack.
  Mr. MARINO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to express my heartfelt 
sorrow for the tragic and senseless attack on Representative Gabrielle 
Giffords, her staff and constituents. I especially want to offer my 
condolences to the families of Christina Taylor Green, Judge John Roll, 
Dorothy Morris, Phyllis Schneck, Dorwan Stoddard, and Gabriel 
Zimmerman. Their memories will live on in the hearts of all Americans.
  I would also like to send my best wishes to those who were wounded 
during the attack, particularly our colleague Representative Giffords. 
We hope for your speedy and complete recovery.
  Also important to remember are the heroic actions of the individuals 
who put their lives on the line to bring down the gunman before he had 
the opportunity to reload his weapon. Without your quick thinking and 
brave intervention this tragedy could have been much worse.
  Finally, it is important to recognize the emergency responders, 
nurses, doctors, and all medical personnel who have worked tirelessly 
throughout these difficult times. Your efforts undoubtedly saved lives 
and your dedication cannot be praised enough.
  Again, my thoughts and prayers go out to the victims and their 
families.
  Mr. OWENS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to 
Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords, her staff, their families and 
everyone affected by the tragic events of January 8, 2011 in Tucson, 
Arizona.
  It has been my honor to work with Congresswoman Giffords here in 
Washington, and to call her a friend. Congresswoman Giffords has earned 
her reputation as a pragmatic, rational and clear-minded lawmaker, and 
we are all better for having served with her. My wife and I have had 
the opportunity to spend time with her and her husband, who are truly 
patriotic and dedicated Americans not deserving of this fate.
  The details of this horrifying event are still coming to light, but 
in these uncertain times it is my hope that we can come together to 
bring relief to the victims and justice to those responsible, not point 
partisan fingers or score political points. We owe it to those lost or 
wounded in this senseless crime to grieve for the fallen, pray for 
those in recovery and reflect on how we might better serve our office 
and the work of this great nation.
  Madam Speaker, I know I speak for all my colleagues in wishing her a 
speedy recovery. I look forward to working with her again soon in the 
halls of Congress.
  Mr. MILLER of Florida. Madam Speaker, Saturday was a tragic day for 
America. Like most Americans, my wife Vicki and I felt a profound loss 
because of the senseless attacks at a Congress on your Corner event 
held by Representative Gabrielle Giffords.
  Gabby serves with me on the House Armed Services Committee, and all 
of us who have worked with her hold her in the highest regards as a 
hard-working public servant. The violent attack on a Member of 
Congress, her staff, and innocent constituents was not only attack 
against humanity; it was also an attack on our freedom and democracy.
  Throughout the history of our Nation, Americans have stood together 
in times of tragedy. Today we gather to honor that tradition and 
display our unwavering support for Gabby and the other victims and 
families affected by this attack. Let one man's senseless act not 
overshadow her service, or the lives of those who were tragically lost.
  Vicki and I continue to pray for her full recovery, for her family 
and staff and all of those whose lives were gravely impacted and 
forever changed.
  Mr. FARR. Madam Speaker, oh sister how I have cried, prayed, and 
listened to stories about you. I am so sorry for your pain of losses, 
and your pain through your recovery. But I am, at the same time, so 
proud of you and delighted you are alive.
  For all the wrong reasons, today the world rightfully knows what a 
remarkable person you are. They know how fortunate our country has been 
to have you in public service. You still haven't stopped serving, 
because your injured life has given hope to millions that you will 
recover--and that those with like kinds of injuries may also have a 
chance. You are a national role model for public service-brave, kind, 
friendly, accessible and effective.
  While praying for your life I recalled every conversation we had and 
each photo I have taken of you and Mark.

[[Page H187]]

  I remember when you were first elected in your great class of 
freshman. I was so proud to meet the woman that took Jim Kolbe's place. 
You had been a Fulbright Scholar in Mexico. We talked about your 
student life there and my similar age experience of being in Peace 
Corps in South America--how we had parallel experiences serving in the 
Arizona and California legislatures.
  Starting with that first conversation, we both knew we were like 
brother and sister in a large body of Congress. Over the years I grew 
amazed at how hard you worked, and it made me wonder if you ever had 
time for yourself. Obviously meeting and marrying Mark, an admired 
astronaut, gave you an added value to life. This might be why you 
always came to work so happy. I pray that you never lose your 
happiness, as it always lightens up the room for others. But I do worry 
about how tough your district has made your campaign demands, and thus 
on your personal life.
  Your recovery keeps me smiling, after the tears of tragedy, to watch 
you--once again--show me--while sitting in the Chamber--the marred of 
politicians on your Blackberry. Gabby you are the only member that has 
the full schedule of NASA launches and landings at your finger tips. 
This is just another example of how clever you are in application of 
technology to political life style.
  So today our colleagues stand in the Chamber to salute you, to mourn 
the loss of other wonderful people, and to begin the dialogue on what 
we have learned from your tragic encounters.
  I hope that we can learn and honor the victims, with smarter gun 
control and better funding for mental health treatment. And I hope we 
can develop a better understanding that hate talk and negative 
campaigning leaves the wrong impression for young people growing up in 
our society. A democracy based on negative talk can not survive.
  I pray that you fully recover. I lost my 17-year-old sister from a 
horse accident, while she was visiting me in Colombia during my time 
with the Peace Corps. It was just months after my mother had died of 
cancer. My sister Nancy died because of the lack of medical care 
available in the rural hospital. So I am extremely relieved that the 
availability of good medical science and a rapid response saved your 
life.
  We all look forward to seeing you back on the floor of the House of 
Representatives. You have always been the spirit of public service, and 
will continue to be forever more. God bless you Gabrielle Giffords.
  Mr. WOLF. Madam Speaker, I join with my colleagues today to honor the 
6 who died and the 14 who were wounded, including our own colleague 
Gabrielle Giffords, in the horror which unfolded last Saturday morning 
in Tucson, Arizona.
  I was at home Saturday checking my iPhone when I saw the shocking 
news of the shootings and that Congresswoman Giffords and her staff 
were among the victims. What I read was hard to comprehend. She and her 
staff were doing their jobs, back in her district on a weekend, meeting 
with constituents in the finest example of representative government. 
And in a split second, the lives of those there were forever changed, 
and in a larger context, all of our lives have changed.
  My heart and prayers go out to those who lost their lives and to 
their families. There was 9-year-old Christina Taylor Green, there to 
meet her representative because she wanted to become involved in 
government; Dorothy Morris, there with her husband of over 50 years, 
George, who was critically injured trying to shield his wife from the 
shooting; federal district Judge John Roll, who had just come from 
Mass, which he attended daily; Phyllis Schneck, age 79, who was 
spending the winter in Arizona; and Dorwan Stoddard, a 76-year-old 
retired construction worker, who shielded his wife Mavy, who sustained 
injuries in the shooting. And also slain was Gabe Zimmerman, the 30-
year-old community outreach director for Congresswoman Giffords, a 
congressional staffer like the thousands of dedicated public servants 
we have the privilege of working with in this House. Just there doing a 
job he loved serving the people.
  I haven't had the privilege of getting to know Gabby as well as some 
have, but she and I shared an interest in keeping the space program 
strong. I pray for her full recovery and look forward to working with 
her again when she returns to this House. From what I know of her 
through other colleagues, Gabby Giffords epitomizes what every member 
of this body aspires to be: a dedicated, courageous public servant with 
a heart of service and an optimism about America that is infectious.
  Madam Speaker, we honor the memory of those whose lives were taken 
last Saturday and express our heartfelt condolences to their families 
and friends, and we pray for those who were wounded that they will 
recover quickly, including our colleague, Gabby Giffords.
  Mr. SMITH of Texas. Madam Speaker, today we honor Congresswoman 
Giffords. The House stands together in support of her and in 
condemnation of a senseless attack that severely injured her and 
claimed six lives.
  I have served with Representative Giffords on the Science Committee, 
and am grateful for this opportunity to speak about her character and 
professionalism.
  Representative Giffords is a warm, friendly individual who is 
genuinely interested in others, and who always maintains an upbeat 
attitude.
  She works hard to improve the lives of her constituents, and is 
engaged and energized about issues of concern to them. She also goes 
out of her way to be accessible, which is exactly what she was doing 
when this tragedy occurred.
  The reprehensible attack that took place has united us as Members of 
Congress and reminded us that while the act of a lone gunman cannot 
always be prevented, we must make sure that justice prevails and that 
our democratic ideals remain secure.
  We hope and pray for Representative Giffords' full recovery.
  Mr. GRIJALVA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the memories of 
Gabe Zimmerman, Judge John Roll, Christina-Taylor Green, Dorothy 
Morris, Dorwan Stoddard, and Phyllis Schneck. I rise also to voice my 
sincere hope for the recovery of our friend and colleague, 
Representative Gabrielle Giffords, and the others who were injured in 
Saturday's terrible shooting. The loss to the Congressional community 
and to Tucson has already been great. We can only hope the loss will 
not become even greater.
  Representative Giffords serves a politically divided community. As 
long as I have known her, she's worked honestly and tirelessly to 
bridge that divide. There are few greater goals in public life than 
bringing people together and creating unity. Whatever your politics, 
Representative Giffords is a listener and a seeker of solutions. In 
politics and in life, that is a rare thing.
  She spread that ethic to her staff, as Tucson knows very well. Gabe 
Zimmerman, her director of community outreach, had an incredible and 
contagious desire to help people and make their lives better. When we 
speak of public service, we sometimes forget the many unelected but no 
less dedicated men and women whose work enriches the city, district, 
state or country they serve. Tucson, and I hope the country, will never 
forget public servants like Gabe. He will be missed by more people than 
he could ever know.
  Judge Roll was a strong, honest and effective advocate for the 
American justice system, and his loss will be deeply felt. Christina 
Green, at only 9 years old, had already made an impression on everyone 
around her and will be long remembered. Dorwan Stoddard, a committed 
and long-time church volunteer, reportedly died saving his wife's life 
by shielding her from gunfire. Dorothy Morris and her husband, George, 
were together on that tragic day as they had been for the past 55 years 
of their happy marriage, and her daughters and family will hold her 
memory very close. Phyllis Schneck was an outgoing mother and 
grandmother known for her generosity and devotion to her family, and 
our thoughts go out to her and her loved ones today.
  Alongside the victims of this tragedy, I would like to take a moment 
to recognize the many heroes of that day--people who offered medical 
assistance, alerted law enforcement, prevented further violence or 
assisted in too many other ways to count. This resolution names 
Patricia Maisch, Army Col. Bill Badger, Roger Sulzgeber, Joseph 
Zimudio, and Daniel Hernandez, Jr. To that list we can add brave people 
like Steven Rayle, an MD who was at the event and offered emergency 
medical attention to the wounded, and many others whose names may 
emerge over time.
  It is in the spirit of unity that we all go forward together. As 
difficult as this time has been for Tucson and the Nation, this can be 
a moment when the best is truly in each of us. This can be a time when 
the truest values of humanity join us all--values that let us mourn 
appropriately, reflect together, take time for ourselves, and bring us 
closer. At this moment, there is no greater goal than to heal our 
wounds and grow stronger.
  Out of great tragedy and sorrow, there will be a new America. Pain 
brings people together and reminds us of the time we all share on this 
Earth. It also reminds us of the value of being good to one another, 
and how easily we forget ourselves in a heated moment. Pain, as 
horrible as it is, is inevitable. Our lives cannot be free of it. What 
matters now--what always matters--is how we respond to it.
  Our most important response will not be political--it will be simply 
human. It will be to build bridges and remember those who have died. 
Public life should be about bringing people together; so should private 
life. We are stronger and more human when we are together. That's true 
of a family, a community, and a country. In a very real sense, a 
country--our country--is a family. Families may fight, disagree and say 
things they regret, but

[[Page H188]]

in the end, they come together. They rejoin their hands and make peace. 
This is a time to make peace in America.
  There are few occasions to offer a call for national unity, and in 
our lifetimes there will be few others. I sincerely hope the next is 
not another tragedy. With that hope, today I add my voice to the many 
who call for a stronger national family. There is nothing more 
important.
  Mr. RUNYAN. Madam Speaker, along with the rest of the American 
people, I was shocked and saddened by news of the January 8, 2011 
attack on Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords, her Congressional staff, 
Judge John Roll, and her constituents at a public event in Tucson, 
Arizona.
  Congresswoman Giffords is a dedicated public servant who was engaging 
in the most important role we have as Members of Congress: interacting 
with and listening to our constituents. January 8, 2011 was indeed a 
sad day for our Nation and this sick and senseless act of violence in 
Arizona has no place in our society.
  My thoughts and prayers are with Congresswoman Giffords and the other 
victims of this unfathomable attack. May their families and friends 
find comfort and strength in knowing the American people are with them 
in spirit during this difficult time.
  Mr. AL GREEN of Texas. Madam Speaker, today I extend sympathies and 
well wishes to my colleague, Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords of the 
8th Congressional District of the State of Arizona. I wish a speedy 
recovery for this remarkable woman who has dedicated her life and 
career in service to her constituents.
  I would also like to extend my deepest condolences to the families of 
the victims who were fatally wounded: nine-year-old Christina Taylor 
Green, Congressional Staffer Gabe Zimmerman, Federal Judge John Roll, 
and Arizona citizens Dorwin Stoddard, Phyllis Schneck, as well as 
Dorothy Morris. To the people of Tucson, Arizona affected by this 
random, senseless act of violence, my thoughts and prayers remain with 
you.
  As they work through the ineffable tragedy which befell this 
community on Saturday, January 8, 2011, I must commend the tireless 
efforts of Pima County's first responders, as well as the efforts of 
bystanders in their role to restore and maintain order during this 
tragedy. With their efforts, lives were saved.
  America is mourning both for the victims of this tragedy and for the 
assault against our constitutional right to peaceably assemble. That 
our citizens can fall under attack while upholding our Democratic 
values is deplorable. We must never allow an act of violence to thwart 
this right.
  I ask my colleagues to join me in support of the Resolution before 
this chamber today which condemns this indiscriminate act of violence 
and honors Representative Giffords as she fights to recover.
  Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I rise today to offer my 
condolences regarding the terrible events that took place on Saturday, 
January 8, 2011, in Tucson, Arizona. The attempted assassination of 
Representative Gabrielle Giffords and the killing of six people, 
including a 9-year-old child, a federal judge, and a congressional 
aide, is an unspeakable tragedy.
  Congresswoman Giffords is not only an esteemed colleague of mine, she 
is my friend. It has been an honor to serve alongside of her on the 
Armed Services Committee, and I have witnessed first-hand her 
dedication. Gabrielle's passion for her job is evident to all those who 
know her, and it is no surprise to me that Gabrielle was doing what she 
loves most on that horrible Saturday. I look forward to her full and 
speedy recovery, and I anxiously await her return to Congress.
  While I am hopeful about Gabrielle's recovery, I am heartbroken over 
the deaths of the six innocent people caught at the wrong place, at the 
wrong time. Christina Taylor Green, who was only 9 years old, was 
recently elected to her school's student council and hoped to speak 
with a government official that tragic day. Pennsylvania native and 
Federal judge, John Roll, was hoping to meet with his Congresswoman to 
discuss overcrowding of prisons. Gabriel Zimmerman was struck while 
carrying out his duties as the Congresswoman's Director of Community 
Outreach. Dorothy Morris, Dorwan Stoddard, and Phyllis Schneck were 
going about their regular Saturday activities and hoped they would get 
a chance to speak with their member of Congress.
  Madam Speaker, I hope that all those touched by these tragic events 
find peace and comfort. Saturday, January 8, 2011 should be a reminder 
to all Americans that there is no place for violence in a free 
political process. I continue to pray for those that were lost and for 
the recovery of those who were wounded, and I hope we as a country can 
move forward and learn from this tragedy.
  Mr. CONYERS. Madam Speaker, today I rise in support of House 
Resolution 32, expressing the sense of the House of Representatives 
with respect to the tragic shooting in Tucson, Arizona, on January 8, 
2011. Last Saturday's senseless and vile act of violence wounded 
Congresswoman Giffords at an event with her constituents. Six Americans 
were tragically killed and 14 others, including relatives of the slain, 
are recovering.
  First, above all else, I want to express how deeply saddened I am by 
this weekend's events. Congresswoman Giffords is a dedicated public 
servant, a cherished colleague, and a friend. I join with all Americans 
in wishing Gabby and the other wounded a speedy recovery. I also mourn 
the loss of those who passed. Gabriel Zimmerman was Congresswoman 
Giffords' community outreach director. Dorwin Stoddard, a retiree, was 
waiting in line with his wife to speak to the Congresswoman and 
protected his wife from the gunman's bullets. The youngest victim was 
9-year-old Christina Green who had just been elected to her elementary 
school's student council. Dorothy Murray was a retired homemaker and 
her husband was among the injured. Phyllis Schneck, also a retiree and 
a New Jersey native, spent winters in Arizona. Chief Judge John Roll 
was a respected jurist who served on the federal bench since 1991 and 
became Chief Judge in 2006.
  Last Saturday, Representative Gabrielle Giffords was doing the 
people's business, meeting constituents in front of a local grocery 
store and explaining how government, can improve their lives. She was 
doing her job: connecting her constituents to their government.
  The tragic event should cause us all to stop and consider what more 
we can to do to change the tone of our national politics. In recent 
years, it seems that politicians and other public figures have 
increasingly utilized political rhetoric that includes violent imagery 
to make a point. We can do better. We must do better.
  As someone who knew the late Dr. Martin Luther King, I have drawn 
inspiration during this crisis from one of his statements. Dr. King 
believed that ``nonviolence means avoiding not only external physical 
violence but also internal violence of spirit. You not only refuse to 
shoot a man, but you refuse to hate him.'' As we approach the Dr. 
Martin Luther King, Jr., holiday, I hope we can reflect on these words 
and his teachings and make our world a more just and peaceful place.
  Mr. LUJAN. Madam Speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I rise today 
to mourn the victims of Saturday's tragic shooting that took the lives 
of six people, injured numerous others, and left our friend and 
colleague, Gabrielle Giffords, fighting for her life. In an instant, 
the Tucson community, and indeed the entire country, was shocked by the 
senseless violence and saddened by the loss.
  For four years, Gabby Giffords has been a well-respected member of 
this body, serving her constituents with determination and distinction. 
To those who know her, it comes as no surprise that she is fighting 
with such tenacity to recover from this severe injury. I wish her all 
the best on a full and speedy recovery and look forward to the day when 
we will welcome her back to this chamber.
  I know I join with my constituents in New Mexico in honoring those 
who lost their lives in this heinous attack, those who wanted nothing 
more than to be part of our democratic process and speak with their 
elected representative or dedicate themselves to public service. Their 
memory will not be forgotten. My thoughts and prayers are with all of 
those involved in this tragedy as well as their families and friends 
during this difficult time.
  Mr. LEWIS of Georgia. Madam Speaker, today I rise with a heavy heart 
at this moment of great sadness in our nation's history. The violence 
we witnessed last weekend in Arizona still seems so unreal, so 
shocking, so unbelievable. Only a few days ago, Representative 
Gabrielle Giffords stood in the well of the House reading the First 
Amendment, and today she is fighting to regain her ability to speak.
  I keep hoping that in the midst of this great tragedy, we will say 
enough is enough. I keep hoping we will finally find it necessary to 
teach the way to love, the way of peace and non-violence, not only to 
our children, but that we will embrace it among ourselves as adults and 
as national leaders. We pray a special prayer today for all of the 
people of Arizona, but especially Gabrielle Giffords and her husband 
Mark Kelly.
  Representative Giffords is one of the most hopeful, optimistic people 
you would ever want to meet. She is wonderful. She is smart, and she is 
beautiful. I hope that one day soon she will rejoin us in this chamber. 
My thoughts and prayers are with the victims and the families of all 
those who were hurt, those who are still struggling to be made whole, 
and with the families of all those who were slain. May God bless them 
all in these difficult hours.
  Mr. INSLEE. Madam Speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I rise to 
support House Resolution 32, expressing the sense of the House of 
Representatives with respect to the tragic shooting in Tucson, Arizona, 
on January 8,

[[Page H189]]

2011. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their loved 
ones, including my friend and colleague Gabby Giffords, the Giffords 
staff, and all who are mourning this tragedy in Arizona and across the 
Nation.
  The events of this weekend are difficult to comprehend. Gabby is a 
champion for her constituents and it was because of her devotion to 
them that she was outside a local grocery store the Saturday morning 
when she nearly lost her life. As the tragedy unfolded, she was 
surrounded by a group of dutiful staff and constituents, including an 
intern who may have saved her life, and many who so unbelievably lost 
their own lives or were injured.
  I have gotten to know Gabby through our shared efforts to advance 
renewable energy policies, including our working together on the 
Sustainable Energy and Environment Coalition. She's bright and 
engaging, and is always bringing in fresh ideas to achieve solutions to 
our Nation's energy problems. My heart is with her and her husband at 
this moment as she fights for her recovery. If there is anyone who can 
pull through, I believe it will be Gabby.
  It is in times like these that I believe our Nation can rise above 
our past and shine brighter than we have before. While it will take 
time to learn exactly why this has happened, I hope that as we heal, 
our Nation will find a way to be more compassionate, understanding and 
peaceful.
  Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise with all of my colleagues here to 
honor the victims of the tragedy in Tuscon and to speak of our great 
colleague Gabby Giffords.
  We are all encouraged by the signs of recovery that Gabby is showing 
every day she has been in the hospital. Our prayers are with her, her 
husband Commander Mark Kelly and her entire family.
  As Co-Chair of the Traumatic Brain Injury Taskforce I know Gabby 
faces a long road. We now she is receiving the best care in the world--
but even more importantly we all know that she's a fighter and that's 
exactly what she's doing now.
  On Monday in honor of the victims in Tucson I called for a Week of 
Solidarity in the 8th District of New Jersey.
  I love that word ``solidarity'' and all it represents. I wanted all 
our faith leaders to hold services and events this week--in order for 
our collective community to reflect on this national tragedy and pray 
for the victims and their families and for all of America.
  As tragically occurred in Tucson, too many of our communities have 
been afflicted by gun violence--as a nation now is the time to heal 
with our words and find unity where there may be strife.
  I find it especially appropriate that the end of this week will 
culminate with the observance of Martin Luther King Day--a man who gave 
our entire Nation the chance to find solidarity with each other--it is 
a bond that serves us well in the wake of this tragedy.
  The victims in Tucson truly embody the greatest spirit of our Nation, 
you had individuals from every different background, both young and 
old, coming together as citizens to take part in one of the most 
essential rites of our representative democracy--it is indeed 
government of the people, by the people, for the people.
  I hope we will all look towards Gabby's example and use it to guide 
us towards a better public discourse with each other--I think we can 
all agree that too often these days our political rhetoric has gotten 
overheated and vitriolic. Lower our voices and raise our commitment to 
peaceful resolve.
  I want to make this very clear, this is not about being on the left 
or the right--the shooting in Tucson was an attack on all Americans 
from a perpetrator who tried to strike at the very heart of our great 
democracy.
  Being from Paterson, NJ and it being the day after Alexander 
Hamilton's birthday, I am reminded of one of the greatest political 
debates in the history of our Nation between Alexander Hamilton and 
Thomas Jefferson.
  The nature of the debate between Hamilton and Jefferson was as 
monumental in their day as it is in ours--their arguments went to the 
very core of our Nation in its infancy and the issues they debated 
remain contested to this day--yet despite the gravity of their 
discussion not once did they cross the line from fierce disagreement to 
considering violent solutions.
  I hope we will use this occasion to pause and recognize that in our 
great Nation we each have a responsibility to stand shoulder-to-
shoulder with our fellow citizens in times both good and bad.

       Names of the Victims: Chief Judge John Roll, 63; Christina 
     Taylor Green, 9; Dorothy Morris, 76; Phyllis Scheck, 79; 
     Dorwan Stoddard, 76; and Gabriel ``Gabe'' Zimmerman, 30, 
     (Giffords's staff as a Community Outreach Director).

  Mr. SERRANO. Madam Speaker, it is with heartfelt sadness that today I 
remember those who lost their lives in this bravery in trying to stop 
the gunman. I remember those who were wounded and even now are fighting 
to recover from their wounds. I remember all of the family members who 
are struggling with great losses. Finally, I remember with hope for her 
speedy recovery, Representative Gabrielle Giffords.
  This is a sad time for our Nation, a time when we reflect on how all 
too often violence strikes and randomly takes some of our best and 
brightest. All of the lives that were lost were special to those who 
loved them--to their spouses and their children and their 
grandchildren. Judge John Roll was a public official serving our 
country with distinction and dedication. Christina Taylor Green was a 
young child with an interest in learning more about how government 
works. I hope that in the future our children will be able to meet with 
their representatives without endangering their lives.
  As a Member of Congress who has worked with Representative Giffords, 
I am especially touched by this senseless tragedy. Representative 
Giffords is a very friendly, hard working colleague. She is someone who 
is easy to get along with and always willing to chat and lend a helping 
hand. She was doing what is expected of all of us who represent our 
constituents--we meet with our constituents and we listen to their 
concerns and we try to help them. That is what we were elected to do--
and so it is especially hard to see that one of our own was injured 
while doing--what we all do--our job.
  Please let me conclude by saying that my thoughts and prayers are 
with all of those who died or were injured and with the families who 
loved them. My prayers are with Representative Giffords as she recovers 
and my hope is that soon she will be back with us here in the House of 
Representatives where she belongs.
  Mr. RANGEL. Madam Speaker, I rise to ask all Americans to join me in 
my prayers for Representative Gabrielle Giffords' speedy and full 
recovery. I extend my thoughts to her husband, Captain Mark Kelly, 
their family, and those of all the staff and constituents who were 
innocent victims of this traumatic event.
  At a time like this we should also remember that all of our staffs 
could be in harm's way, just by working with us. Staff is a vital part 
of our lives, and without them we would not be able to function. While 
everyone is concerned about Members' safety, I think we should also be 
concerned for our staff.
  Such act of violence on Gabby, her staff and constituents is a threat 
to the virtue of open government and has no place in our democracy. 
Concern for safety should not stand between public officials and the 
people. My constituents in Upper Manhattan have a special understanding 
of this tragedy because of the amount of gun violence we have in the 
district.
  Gabby is one of the most charming and brilliant stars I have seen in 
Congress. She is a true dedicated public servant who works tirelessly 
for the people of her district and our great country. I have great love 
and affection for Gabby and I look forward to seeing my dear colleague 
and friend back in Washington very soon.
  Mr. QUIGLEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Res. 32 and 
to offer my thoughts and prayers for my friend and colleague Gabrielle 
Giffords, as well as the 18 other victims of Saturday's unthinkable 
tragedy in Tucson.
  I hope and pray for the wellbeing of all those battling for their 
lives and offer my deepest condolences to those who did not survive--
Christina Taylor Green, Dorothy Morris, Judge John M. Roll, Phyllis 
Schneck, Dorwin Stoddard, and Gabe Zimmerman. My heart goes out to the 
families and loved ones of all involved.
  Congress on Your Corner is democracy in action. Ms. Giffords, her 
staff, and everyone attending Saturday's event were doing what this 
country is built on: participating in a conversation between an elected 
official and the people she represents. As sadness gives way to 
reflection, I hope we will remain committed to that ideal.
  Just 2 years ago, I was a new member of this body. Gabby Giffords 
greeted me with warmth, kindness, and friendship. With all my heart, I 
hope to one day return the favor.
  Mrs. CHRISTENSEN. Madam Speaker, I rise to join my colleagues in 
support of this resolution and to offer heartfelt sympathies oil behalf 
of myself, my family, staff and the people of the U.S. Virgin Islands 
to the people of the Eighth District of Arizona, our colleague 
Gabrielle Giffords, her staff, their families and all others who were 
hurt or killed in the tragic and senseless attack in Tucson, Arizona.
  Everywhere that I went at home, my constituents responded with 
outrage, but also prayerfully to this horrendous event. Our churches 
devoted Sunday services in memory of those who died, offered prayers 
for speedy and full recovery tor those injured, for the affected 
families, for the residents of the district and for our nation as well 
as in grateful tribute to all who responded and continue to respond.
  We joined our fellow Americans in the moment of silence on Monday.

[[Page H190]]

  I, like all of my colleagues, and all public figures understand and 
accept the risks of being in public office and we and those charged 
with the responsibility of protecting us act to mitigate these risks. 
However we are here to represent the residents of our districts and are 
committed to doing what is needed to do so to the best of our ability. 
That means that we must meet, listen and interact with our constituents 
as much as possible. This incident will not prevent us from doing so,
  But just as we continue to carry out our duties, it is the 
responsibility of everyone, but particularly those who have a public 
platform, to be responsible in what they communicate to the public and 
how.
  There are many who warned that the increasingly inflammatory rhetoric 
of the past year, especially as the campaigns got underway, could lead 
to some kind of violent action.
  That being said I do not intend to point fingers or cast blame, but 
ask only that each and every one of us here and across this country 
honestly and fully examine our hearts, our consciences and our past 
words and actions and ensure that going forward all that we do and say 
reflect respect and unity instead of discord, divisiveness and 
violence.
  As someone who has abhorred violence and worked for peace all of my 
life, I have had the great privilege and honor of joining my 
distinguished colleague John Lewis and the Faith and Politics Institute 
almost every year that they have held it on the civil rights pilgrimage 
to pay tribute to all who work for justice and equality but also to 
renew my dedication to non-violence and my commitment to furthering the 
beloved community envisioned by the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
  It is a spiritual, renewing and life enriching--for some, life 
changing experience--and I would urge as many as can to attend this 
year.
  Our colleague, Gabby Giffords, as many have already said and everyone 
now knows is a special person. Many of us supported her during what was 
an extremely difficult and unnecessarily bitter campaign. She may not 
have always voted as I would have wanted her to, but she is without a 
doubt fearless and faithful in the representation of her district and 
all of us respect her highly and love her dearly. We thank God that she 
is progressing well and we pray for her full and speedy recovery. This 
body is incomplete without her presence.
  As we approach the hard fought for Martin Luther King holiday, let us 
all rededicate ourselves to the principles he espoused, commit 
ourselves to continuing his legacy and to being drum majors for justice 
and peace!
  Mr. HONDA. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of House Resolution 
32, honoring our colleague, Representative Gabrielle Giffords, and 
those killed and injured in a senseless shooting during a Congress on 
Your Corner event in Tucson, Arizona. Our colleague Gabby was doing her 
job to serve the constituents of the 8th Congressional District of 
Arizona, those who were killed and wounded were there to participate in 
the democratic process we hold dear. As the nation mourns with the 
victims' families, we learn about these innocent Americans whose lives 
were cut short by this unspeakable crime against our democracy and our 
humanity.
  Dorothy Morris, age 76, known to her friends as ``Dot,'' was a 
retired homemaker and secretary who lived with her husband of 50 years, 
George, at a retirement community just north of Tucson. When the shots 
rang out, George, a former Marine and retired airline pilot, threw 
himself on his wife in an attempt to shield her from the bullets. 
George survived after suffering two gunshot wounds; Dorothy did not.
  Judge John Roll, age 63, was the chief judge of Arizona's Federal 
district court. Appointed to the Federal bench in 1991 by President 
George H.W. Bush, Judge Roll was a widely respected jurist by his 
colleagues. Known for this deep Catholic faith, it is reported that 
Judge Roll was simply stopping by the event to say hello to his friend, 
Gabby, after morning mass. Judge Roll is survived by his wife, Maureen, 
their three sons, and five grandchildren.
  Phyllis Schneck, age 79, a widow and retired homemaker, was a native 
of Rutherford, New Jersey, where she would return during the hot Tucson 
summers. Phyllis is known by her three children, seven grandchildren, 
and great-granddaughter as a talented cook, and she spent much of her 
retirement volunteering at her church. According to her daughter, 
Phyllis was a registered Republican who was not involved in politics, 
but Representative Giffords was ``the first person she really took a 
liking to.''
  Dorwin Stoddard, age 76, was a Tucson native and leader in his 
church. Dorwin attended the event with his wife Mavy, a high school 
classmate who he reunited with and married after both their former 
spouses passed away. After seeing Mavy shot and wounded, Dorwin threw 
himself on her and shielded her from the spray of bullets. As Dorwin's 
stepdaughter noted, ``What a way to go, as the hero, he lived that kind 
of a life.''
  Gabe Zimmerman, age 30, was the Director of Community Outreach for 
Representative Giffords. Oftentimes the face of Representative 
Giffords's office to her constituents, as one of his colleagues said, 
``Gabe helped people for a living.'' Gabe was engaged to be married 
with a wedding date set for 2012.
  The youngest victim, Madam Speaker, was Christina Taylor Green, age 
9, a third grade student at Mesa Verde Elementary School. Christina had 
recently been elected to the student council and was inspired into 
politics by President Obama's 2008 campaign. A neighbor brought 
Christina to the event to meet her Congresswoman. Born on the fateful 
day of September 11, 2001, Christina was taken from her parents and 
this nation on January 8, 2011.
  Madam Speaker, today, with the passage of House Resolution 32, the 
People's House mourns with family and with the nation for these 
innocent lives cut short. During these trying times for our nation, I 
am reminded of what Senator Robert F. Kennedy once said in his remarks 
to the Cleveland City Club just months before he was assassinated.
  ``A sniper is only a coward, not a hero; and an uncontrolled, 
uncontrollable mob is only the voice of madness, not the voice of the 
people.
  ``Whenever any American's life is taken by another American 
unnecessarily--whether it is done in the name of the law or in the 
defiance of law, by one man or a gang, in cold blood or in passion, in 
an attack of violence or in response to violence--whenever we tear at 
the fabric of life which another man has painfully and clumsily woven 
for himself and his children, the whole nation is degraded.''
  Now is a time for reflection. My prayers and condolences are with the 
fallen victims' families and with those, including Gabby, who are 
making their way along the long road to recovery from the injuries they 
suffered. May our nation honor the loss of innocent lives with greater 
peace and understanding.
  Mr. RAHALL. Madam Speaker, West Virginians' hearts are heavy for our 
fellow citizens lost last weekend in Tucson, Arizona. To those 
recovering, our dear colleague, Gabby Giffords, our thoughts and 
fervent prayers are offered.
  Our country's resolve is strengthened each time it is tested. Citizen 
participation is the democratic bedrock of our more perfect Union.
  Representative Giffords understands the value of constant constituent 
conversation, and her example shines as a beacon for public office 
holders throughout our Republic to follow.
  May Gabby's dedication to others serve her recovery, as the blessings 
we celebrate in the Book of Ruth, ``a restorer of thy life, and a 
nourisher of thine old age.''
  Mrs. BACHMANN. Madam Speaker, today I join with my colleagues in 
condemning the savage attack in Tucson last Saturday that shattered the 
lives of so many innocent victims, and their families and friends, and 
broke the heart of a nation. Since the news of this awful tragedy, I 
have prayed through tears for comfort, and for peace in the midst of 
the storm, for the families of the six people whose lives were 
senselessly ended by a gunman who had no concern for human life. I have 
also been praying for healing for those who were injured; among them a 
respected colleague and friend, Gabby Giffords.
  Gabby and I came to Congress together in 2006. Over the years we have 
often voted differently. From time to time, we found ourselves at 
opposite ends of the table during media interviews, offering 
contrasting viewpoints. But the moment we stepped away from the set, we 
greeted each other as we often did on the House floor, as friends, with 
a hug, a warm smile, and a few precious moments of conversation. I 
cherished those times with Gabby, and I look forward to renewing them 
as she recovers and returns to the good, faithful, and hard-working 
service that she has given to the people of Arizona's 8th District.
  I am rejoicing to hear the doctor's prognosis of recovery for Gabby, 
but my heart is broken for the families of the six victims who lost 
loved ones in that unconscionable act last Saturday. They were American 
citizens who were brutally gunned down even as they were taking 
advantage of the time-honored American tradition of meeting face-to-
face with an elected representative for a free and open discourse about 
issues of concern. One of the small ways we can honor their memory is 
to carry on with that discourse, opening our doors to the American 
people, listening to their concerns, and exercising the free exchange 
of ideas that has marked our nation throughout its history.
  Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, last Saturday in Tucson, Arizona our 
colleague, Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, was shot by a disturbed gunman 
while she was meeting her constituents. This shooting resulted in the 
death of six Americans who were participating in the most common of 
events in this democracy, a meeting with their congresswoman. Fourteen 
additional Americans were wounded in the attack,

[[Page H191]]

including the critical wound suffered by Congresswoman Giffords. 
  On January 10, 2011, dozens of concerned and compassionate 
Minnesotans visited my St. Paul District Office to express their 
support for Congresswoman Giffords, the victims, and the people of 
Tucson. They also expressed their heartfelt condolences to those who 
were killed.
  With the consent of the concerned citizens who I have the honor to 
represent, I submit the eloquent words of Minnesotans who send their 
prayers and support for Representative Gabrielle Giffords and all of 
those whose lives have been hurt by this senseless act of violence. I 
join them not only in praying for healing and peace, but I will 
continue to dedicate myself to working to make a more peaceful and less 
hostile America.
  The following comments were made by Minnesotans who visited my St. 
Paul district office on Monday, January 10, 2011. These messages of 
support and sympathy were transcribed directly from their individual 
handwritten notes.
  ``My prayers and thoughts are with the Congresswoman and her staff. 
This act of horrific violence was a response to the everyday work that 
public officials do on a daily basis to serve their constituents. 
Congresswoman Giffords and her staff's work exemplifies this. I hope 
that the Congresswoman can continue to do this important work.'' Henry 
Parker, St. Paul, Minnesota.
  `` `It is here my daughters, that love is to be found, not hidden 
away in the corners but in the midst of occasions of sin. And believe 
me, although we may more often fail and commit small lapses, our gain 
will be incomparably the greater.'--Saint Teresa of Avila'' Loren 
Cramer, St. Paul, Minnesota.
  ``I'm so sorry to hear of this violent attack in Tucson. I hope for 
and pray for Giffords and others.'' Mary Doran, St. Paul, Minnesota.
  ``Keep up your work. We need you now more than ever.'' Jason Garrett, 
St. Paul, Minnesota.
  ``God bless America. Thoughts and prayers to the victims and their 
families.'' Nicole Ly, Oakdale, Minnesota.
  ``Our thoughts and prayers are with you, your staff, and your family 
during this difficult time. You have the nation behind you with an 
outpouring of love and well wishes.'' Shelly Schafer, Woodbury, 
Minnesota.
  ``Although Congresswoman Giffords may have been the target, all 
citizens who engage their elected officials have become unsettled by 
this act. Civil war < Be civil.'' Mary Jane LaVigne, Birchwood Village, 
Minnesota.
  ``I am so sad to hear about the shooting. I pray for your recovery. I 
want you to be strong and continue to be the fighter that you are so 
you can continue to walk and serve the people of America. Thank you for 
your service. Your district is giving up a lot for America and my 
thoughts are with you.'' Kao Ly Ilean Her, St. Paul, Minnesota.
  ``My heart goes out to the Giffords family. I was born and raised in 
Tucson, and now serve in the Minnesota House. To think our public 
servants are under attack is so sad. We pray for you Gabby. We pray for 
the victims.'' Nora Slawik, Maplewood, Minnesota.
  ``Our thoughts and our prayers are with all the victims of the 
Arizona shooting!'' Susan Zumberge, St. Paul, Minnesota.
  ``Our thoughts and prayers go out to you, the other victims, their 
loved ones, and the people of your congressional district. We hope that 
if any good will come of this horrific event, it will be that people 
will once again realize that our fellow citizens, regardless of 
political views, are human and deserve to be treated with respect and 
civility. Our words can have consequence so far beyond our intent.'' 
Steve Schaus & Angela Braun, St. Paul, Minnesota.
  ``My heart is terribly heavy with this horrific event. For any public 
servant to be struck down while serving the people is an appalling 
affront to every citizen. For innocent and random people to be struck 
down in this way is an affront to all humanity. Let us all pray for the 
families of the victims, and work for peace among all people.'' Ross 
Willits, St. Paul, Minnesota.

  ``Gabby, you are in my thoughts and prayers as you recover. I am 
deeply saddened that someone like yourself who has willingly given of 
themselves has become a victim of such a senseless act. We pray that 
the rhetoric that inflames will be replaced by words of cooperation and 
collaboration in our houses of Congress. Blessings to you and your 
family.'' Jeanne Sedgwick, St. Paul, Minnesota.
  ``There are no words at my command to express my sorrow at what 
happened and my warm best wishes to all you so affected by truly cruel 
and senseless violence.'' Elmer Pierre, St. Paul, Minnesota.
  ``Rep. Giffords: Please accept my deepest condolences. I also wish 
you immense strength and courage.'' Heather Meyers, Eagan, Minnesota.
  ``As someone who has been involved in politics for years and met many 
members of Congress, I was horrified as I watched the events of this 
past weekend unfold. I was deeply saddened by this attack and I want to 
show my support for the victims and their families. I hope and pray for 
a speedy recovery and I believe that Congresswoman Giffords' service 
and devotion to her country is truly heroic. You are in the hearts and 
minds of all Americans. God bless.'' John Moore, St. Paul, Minnesota.
  ``I offer prayers for Representative Giffords, her family, and all 
others affected by this senseless, terrible tragedy. The wounded and 
killed, especially Christina Green and her family. May you be comforted 
and strengthened by the prayers of our nation.'' Florence Steichen, St. 
Paul, Minnesota.
  ``We need better gun control measures and an increase in civil 
discourse--sending prayers to the families who lost loved ones in this 
senseless act of violence and also to the family of Congresswoman 
Giffords for her speedy and full recovery.'' Lyn Burton, St. Paul, 
Minnesota.
  ``Congresswoman Giffords: Thank you for your service. Thank you for 
your support of health care reform. Prayers for you and your family for 
strength in adversity.'' Mary J. Pohl, St. Paul, Minnesota.
  ``The rhetoric of violence, scapegoating and demonization must end! 
My sympathy to Rep. Giffords, her family, her staff and all victims of 
violence in Tucson.'' Richard Lee Dechert, Maplewood, Minnesota.
  ``My prayers, thoughts, and heartfelt sympathy go out to 
Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords's family, friends, and supporters. My 
daily prayers will include the wishes for the long term recovery of 
Congresswoman Giffords. I express my heartfelt thoughts and prayers for 
the Federal Judge, the young girl and all others who died or were 
harmed by this uncaring perpetrator.'' Fred Gates, St. Paul, Minnesota.
  ``Please know that you are loved and supported in vastly greater 
measure than the distortion and hatred that made this unspeakable 
tragedy possible.'' Lori Stee, St. Paul, Minnesota.
  ``My thoughts are with Rep. Giffords' family as they support 
Gabrielle's recovery and with the others affected by this violent act. 
We are incredibly lucky to live in a country where political violence 
is extremely rare. The rhetoric that creates a context for violence 
must cease. Hate is not a response for disagreement.'' Anne Claflin, 
St. Paul, Minnesota.
  ``I extend my deepest condolences to Congresswoman Giffords and all 
the victims of this senseless tragedy. There are consequences to the 
violent rhetoric that plagues the political landscape today--it's the 
innocent and the brave that suffer.'' Dr. Mary de Leon-Denton, Inver 
Grove Heights, Minnesota.
  ``My prayers are with you and especially I pray that somehow, 
someway, some good will come of this horrible tragedy.'' Michael 
Michauk, St. Paul, Minnesota.
  ``Congresswoman Giffords, I give you my deepest and heartfelt support 
to the service and honor you give to our country. The needless violence 
and anger that has been shown in our country over politics has to stop. 
It is sad that something like this had to happen in order for the 
dialogue to begin to change how we promote change with deepest prayers 
and sympathy to all harmed.'' Aaron Crawford, St. Paul, Minnesota.
  ``In this time of great sorrow and shock, my great hope is that all 
this will serve to wake up those in our nation who don't believe that 
gun violence is a huge problem that needs to be addressed--yet again. 
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you--and with our country!'' 
Julie B. Goldstein, St. Paul, Minnesota.
  ``To Congresswoman Giffords, her family and those injured and killed: 
This morning I received a note from two constituents--St Paulites in 
the summer and Arizona snowbirds in the winter. Gene and Ginny shared 
their affection for `our dear Gabby'. The road ahead is difficult for 
all of us. I wish you strength in your recovery and wisdom for all 
Americans as we reconcile the meaning of this tragedy with our own 
actions as citizens. To be truly free from violence and persecution, we 
must persist in our efforts to maintain an open society where we can 
disagree peacefully and move forward together. My best to you and your 
families.'' Minnesota State Rep. Erin Murphy, St. Paul, Minnesota.
  ``To Congresswoman Giffords, victims, and their family and friends: 
My heart goes to all of you, and I continue to pray for all of you. 
Public service is noble work, and it is difficult. Thank you for all 
you do, and know the goodwill of the people of our state and country is 
with you at this very difficult time. Together, we will heal and find 
grace in our democracy.'' Minnesota State Rep. Kate Knuth, New 
Brighton, Minnesota.
  ``My heart bleeds for all of you. Courage.'' Ted King, Minneapolis, 
Minnesota.
  ``May you experience a speedy recovery. Thoughts and prayers for you 
and your family.'' Peter Austin, Minneapolis, Minnesota.
  ``May you heal and feel better in time. You are in our prayers. May 
God be with you. You are in our thoughts as you recover from this

[[Page H192]]

tragic event.'' Paehin Young, Minneapolis, Minnesota.
  ``Thank you for all your service to the country. My thoughts and 
prayers are with you and your staff. We need more people like you.'' 
Sam Dougherty, St. Paul, Minnesota.
  ``Our prayers go out to those affected by this attack'' Kevin 
Weingart, Coon Rapids, Minnesota.
  ``My thoughts are with you and your community in this time where 
senseless violence has changed how everyone feels. Public servants and 
those who engage in our government and the political process should not 
fear for their safety. I hope that everyone affected by this tragedy 
can come together in solidarity. Thank you for your service and 
bravery.'' Meagan Bachmayer, Minneapolis, Minnesota.
  ``May the sun rise in your hearts and souls. Our deepest condolences, 
warm wishes and never-ending prayers are with you.'' Jill Curran, Larry 
Wichlans and Family, St. Paul, Minnesota.
  ``I feel so saddened by the events in Tucson, AZ. My sincerest 
sympathies go out to all the victims. God bless, Gundy.'' Gundy 
Gunderson, Oakdale, Minnesota.
  ``A truly tragic moment in our nation's history. My prayers and 
support are with the victims and our nation's leadership as we struggle 
with the complex issues that led to this violent event.'' Cheryl 
Westman, St. Paul, Minnesota.
  ``Thank you for doing this, our prayers are with the Giffords family. 
This is not what our country is about. It is time to come together.'' 
Jody Prip, New Prague, Minnesota.
  ``Blessings of hope and prayers for each one of the innocents killed 
and injured in this tragedy. This feels the same as the tragedies of 
Bobby Kennedy, MLK and 9/11. God help us all--if we calm down--we will 
get through this.'' Robert F. Riesert, St. Paul, Minnesota.
  ``Following the violence, it has been a painful and angry weekend--
much of it emailing my own vitriolic reaction to personal friends. 
Expressing fear for our country and the safety of our representatives 
was a helpful and immediate necessity. The shock remains although many 
of us, as was Gabby herself, feared the new language and images 
presented often now in a repetitive fashion filling the airwave and 
filling especially vulnerable minds with pictures of weapons as 
political tools. We shared emails then too, as we heard and watched the 
rhetoric become louder and scarier. Helpless to counteract these 
emotional appeals, we signed petitions condemning them. We still wait 
helplessly for the apology that will not come. We pray for cool down 
and safety.'' Janyce Kovash, St. Paul, Minnesota.
  `` `Violence is a cycle,' said Dr. King. When met with senseless 
actions against public servants and the public at large, we must strive 
to do justice to the sacrifice and heroism of so many--by reaching out 
to those who serve and thanking them by tamping down the rhetoric and 
respecting those of all political persuasions. And also by answering 
the call to justice and caring for our friends and neighbors. We will 
never have a satisfactory answer to the question `why?' but we can use 
the moment to consider for fully `how?'--How do we ensure that this 
never happens again? My thoughts and prayers are with the families of 
those who lost their lives, especially Gabe Zimmerman, who gave his 
life in service to the people of Arizona. It could have been any of us. 
I also wish Rep. Giffords a speedy recovery and hope to see her return 
to the House and serve her constituents.'' Devin Driscoll, St. Paul, 
Minnesota.
  ``Please accept my deep sympathies for your current situation. We as, 
U.S. citizens, are a very special society. Those that attempt to steal 
our lives, and the lives of our friends, will find that we are strong 
in the face of adversity. The actions against the U.S. citizens in 
Tucson, including Rep. Giffords, are a tragedy that I hope is never 
repeated. Trusting in God's healing and your full recovery.'' Jim 
McKie, West St. Paul, Minnesota.
  ``Thank you for all of your work and service. My thoughts and prayers 
are with you and your family and we hope you have a speedy recovery.'' 
Warren Claflin, South St. Paul, Minnesota.
  ``This weekend's events were a sad reminder of the consequences that 
can arise when political rhetoric becomes hateful or violent. Angry, 
upset and unbalanced people respond in unpredictable ways. Thank you, 
Rep. Giffords, for your service to your district and your country. 
Thank you to the staff that helps you in this work. No American should 
ever fear violence as a consequence of participation in our 
democracy.'' Paul Rohlfing, lives in Minneapolis, works in St. Paul.
  ``Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family from the St. 
Paul Federation of Teachers in St. Paul, Minnesota.'' Julie Hawkins, 
Inver Grove, Minnesota.
  ``I feel anguish at this terrible violence (senseless) and the 
resulting loss of life and hurt. Gun violence is too prevalent in our 
society and too many unstable people have too easy access to guns. I do 
lay some blame on radio shows with hosts that stoke the flames of 
people's anger and sit back and say they have no responsibility. Please 
continue to get stronger and the keep the faith.'' Julia Fish, St. 
Paul, Minnesota.
  ``In these challenging times, know that the thoughts, prayers, and 
best wishes of all Americans are with you and your family. We mourn the 
loss of life, and share your vision of a healthier and stronger 
country. One of my close friends works in Congresswoman McCollum's 
office in St. Paul. I know how hard our public servants work, and you 
must be so proud of the bravery of your young staff intern, Daniel. I 
am sorry beyond words that this happened. Peace to you, and all who 
were impacted by this tragedy.'' Adam Robinson, St. Paul, Minnesota.
  ``Our thoughts and prayers are with the families involved in this 
terrible tragedy. Hopefully this will become a time of healing, and a 
time when the vitriol between opposite sides ceases. We pray that 
Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords and all the wounded recover. Our 
condolences go to those who lost their lives in Tucson. We pray for the 
safety of all public officials, and the continuing health of our 
nation.'' Tom and Susan Pugh, South St. Paul, Minnesota.
  ``Our thoughts are with you as you recover from this brutal and 
senseless attack. I am confident you will continue to serve the people 
of Arizona and the United States. To the families who are struggling 
with this unimaginable loss, the thoughts and prayers of the nation are 
with you.'' Samantha Gemberling, St. Paul, Minnesota.
  ``I wish Congresswoman Giffords, and all others who were wounded, a 
steady and complete recovery. I also wish to extend my sympathy to you 
who lost family members. All of you are in my thoughts and prayers.'' 
Cheryl Kenney, St. Paul, Minnesota.
  ``My prayers are with Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords and all who 
have been injured or killed in this vicious act of violence against 
persons serving US citizens as part of this great democracy--also with 
all who love them. To be engaged in dialogue on the issues--to engage 
civilly in our civic process needs to be returned to our democracy from 
citizens to the media to the halls of Congress. Committed to civil 
civic engagement and to prayers for our prayers for our nation as we 
move forward from this tragedy, I remain,'' ``Ginger'' K. Virginia 
Hidsfrom, St. Paul, Minnesota.
  ``My family and I were stunned to hear of this senseless violence. 
You are in our thoughts and prayers. Our heartfelt condolences go to 
the families of those killed, and we pray for ongoing strength for 
those wounded and their families.'' Kathleen Proctor, Lauderdale, 
Minnesota.
  ``To all in Tucson, AZ affected by this senseless tragedy: You have 
support from us in Minnesota by way of encouragement during your time 
of pain and grief. We will advocate for a return to civil discourse in 
the US rather than vitriolic campaign language that goes on. May your 
pain and anguish turn into positive communication among people in every 
community of our country.'' Joanne Tromiczak-Neid, St. Paul, Minnesota.
  ``My heartfelt wishes and prayers to Congresswoman Giffords, her 
staff, and constituents she proudly represents. My heart, mind, and 
soul grieve for those who have died and have been injured by this 
senseless act of violence. May we, as citizens of the United States, 
and as members of our global world, continue to foster peaceful 
solutions to violence that surrounds us.'' Mary Tacheny, St. Paul, 
Minnesota.
  ``My prayers go out to you, you who were injured or killed, your 
families, your friends, your loved ones. My prayers go out to you, you 
who witnessed the violence, you whose lives won't be the same. I pray 
for the person who did this. Only God understands. I pray for our 
country to find peace. God bless you all. May somehow, some good come 
of this.'' Laura K. Kochevar, St. Paul, Minnesota.
  ``I thank all public servants and especially their staff for their 
dedication to the people they serve. As a former staffer, my heart goes 
out to all the families directly affected by this tragedy. Also I send 
the thoughts and prayers to every Member of Congress and their staff to 
get through this and pray that our country will learn from this and 
stop the incendiary rhetoric. Thank you.'' Kathleen Murphy, St. Paul, 
Minnesota..
  ``We are all saddened by this tragedy. As Speaker Boehner said, `An 
attack on one who serves is an attack on all who serve.' We all stand 
with you and your staff in solidarity as we grieve this incident and 
work to make sense of this senseless event. We thank you for your 
sacrifices in service to the people of Arizona's 8th District. May you 
all have a speedy recovery and also never forget those who were lost, 
and use the memories we have as a guide and inspiration for the future. 
Godspeed, Gabe Zimmerman, Christina Green, Judge John Roll, Dorothy 
Morris, Dorwan Stoddard, and Phyllis Schneck.'' Melissa Jamrock, St. 
Paul, Minnesota.

[[Page H193]]

  ``Change-makers walk a difficult and scary path. But one that gives 
us hope and energy. Thank you for walking, for walking yours with 
courage and pluck. My heart aches for the violence, pain, and fear that 
has been done to all of you and us. I send you my heartfelt wishes for 
healing, safety, and peace.'' Sheri Smith, St. Paul, Minnesota.
  ``Love will conquer all. Remember you have the support of the people. 
Be well.'' Chuck Repile, St. Paul, Minnesota.
  ``My deepest sympathies for Congresswoman Giffords, her staff, and 
their families during this difficult time. I wish the Congresswoman and 
all those injured a speedy recovery.'' Cameron Erickson, Eagan, 
Minnesota.
  ``To all parties involved: This is a tragedy in every sense. Not only 
for Rep. Giffords, Chief Justice Roll, and the other civilians 
involved. Now, more than ever, it has become apparent we are a broken, 
divided nation in need of repair and healing. We must disconnect from 
hateful political rhetoric and campaigns and come together in this time 
of tragedy. God bless the Giffords.'' Louise Dickson, North Oaks, 
Minnesota.
  ``To all AZ residents: This is truly a tragic time, not only for the 
families of those directly affected by this horrible incident, but all 
residents of the 8th district and the state. They have lost their 
representation and voice in DC and in government--the foundation of our 
country. That a mentally ill young man did not get the help needed, was 
allowed to legally purchase a weapon, and used it against innocent 
citizens--is wrong. That our political discourse has gotten so angry 
that it fed this young man's delusions is wrong. We must always 
remember there are other Loughners out there. May all those wounded 
hail those who died and may we all learn from this.'' Laura Neritt, St. 
Paul, Minnesota.
  ``Thank you and thanks to all our U.S. representatives for your 
dedicated service. Our freedom sits with all of us as you represent we 
all the people. I pray for your good health and protection.'' Carol 
Gariann, Shoreview, Minnesota.
  ``My condolences to the shooting victims, their friends, and 
families. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you, and all who feel 
the pain of this tragedy.'' Mark Jenkins, Maplewood, Minnesota.
  ``My condolences go out to the families of the victims of this 
horrible tragedy. My heart goes out to you all.'' Kenneth Sinn, St. 
Paul, Minnesota.
  ``Rep. Giffords--you are right. We will be mellowing the rhetoric. 
Let's listen to the Pima County Sheriff.'' Rick Cardenas, St. Paul, 
Minnesota.
  ``Like Congresswoman McCollum, I am shocked at this event and want 
you all to know I am thinking of you. Some good may come from this 
evil, however, as people are now discussing the role inflammatory 
speech may play in today's America.'' Bernice Vetich, St. Paul, 
Minnesota.
  Mr. SCHWEIKERT. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of the resolution.
  It is with a heavy heart that I come to the floor today to offer 
these thoughts on the tragic events of this past Saturday in Tucson 
that took the lives of Judge John M. Roll, Christina Taylor Green, 
Dorwin Stoddard, Dorothy Morris, Gabe Zimmerman, and Phyllis Schneck 
and gravely injured Congresswoman Gabby Giffords and many others.
  Just last week my wife Joyce and I had the opportunity to visit with 
Gabby in Statuary Hall before the ceremonial swearing-in.
  As in so many of my other interactions with her, Gabby was gracious, 
energetic, and willing to offer a lending hand as I got settled.
  We took a few photos and talked about ways we would work together in 
good spirits. Of course, Gabby and I also went back-and-forth about our 
favorite rivalry, ASU versus U of A.
  Gabby takes enormous pride in her job representing the communities 
and people of the 8th district.
  My wife Joyce and I send our thoughts and prayers to Mark during this 
difficult time. We are deeply appreciative of Mark's generosity in 
sharing Gabby with us in Washington and Arizona.
  It is also important to not forget that these individuals lost their 
lives or were injured while they were exercising their right to 
participate and have a say in our nation's republic.
  Indeed, they became victims while exercising a fundamental right that 
has served as the backbone of our nation since its founding--a right 
our nation's founders sacrificed so dearly for. Just as the victims of 
this past Saturday's tragedy did as well.
  We are stunned by the tragedy, but we remain resolute in our 
commitment assemble peacefully and engage civilly in the type of 
discourse that is fundamental to our republic.
  Although words may not be sufficient to capture the sorrow and grief 
we are experiencing, Joyce and I send our thoughts and prayers to 
Gabby, Mark, Roxanna and John Green, the parents of Christina Taylor 
Green and the loved ones of Judge Roll, Dorwin Stoddard, Dorothy 
Morris, Gabe Zimmerman, Phyllis Schneck, and the Tucson community.
  Our hearts and prayers are with you.
  Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I rise to join my colleagues 
and the rest of the Congressional community in extending my prayers and 
support to the victims of the horrible shooting this past Saturday in 
Tucson, Arizona, and to their families and friends. Our friend and 
colleague, Gabrielle Giffords, continues to fight for her life. She and 
13 others were wounded in this unspeakable tragedy, in which six people 
were killed, including three retirees, a nine-year old child, a federal 
judge and a member of Representative Gifford's staff.
  During the past two years it has been my pleasure to serve with Gabby 
Giffords on the House Foreign Affairs Committee. She is an intelligent 
and dedicated public servant. During my term in this body, I benefited 
from watching and working with Gabby. I know that the House of 
Representatives, and indeed, the entire country have benefited from her 
work and that this chamber will feel her absence until she fully 
recovers and is able to return to the House floor.
  This past Saturday was yet another tragic reminder of the prevalence 
of violence in our society. Our primary concern at this moment must be 
with the victims and their families and friends. We must help them work 
through their grief. We must help the injured through their recovery 
process.
  There is no silver lining when six people are murdered. However, if 
we do not learn from this tragedy, then we will be doomed to repeat it. 
Mr. Speaker, I would submit that our political rhetoric has become 
grossly overheated, and it's time for all of us to take a step back and 
reflect on the effects of the vitriol.
  The philosopher, Voltaire, once wrote, ``I detest what you write, but 
I would give my life to make it possible for you to continue to 
write.'' He was articulating a crucial component--perhaps THE crucial 
component--on which our nation was founded: That no matter how much I 
may disagree with your opinion, it is essential that you have the right 
to express it.
  But too often, lately, it seems that we cannot merely disagree with 
one another's opinions or policies. Instead disagreements become 
personal. Verbal attacks devolve into harsh questions about motives and 
character. Debates about policies or proposals sink to fear-mongering 
and rhetorical claims that the fate of our Republic lies in the 
balance.
  Those of us in this chamber, and others in elected office, understand 
the rhetorical nature of such comments, but can we be absolutely 
certain that such verbal attacks are not being misconstrued in a 
culture of increasing anger and a greater acceptance of confrontation?
  Absolutely, we must preserve each person's fundamental First 
Amendment rights, but can we not agree that we ought to disagree in a 
more agreeable fashion? As elected Representatives, our words certainly 
do have consequences for the policies and actions we are trying to 
shape, but it extends well beyond these four walls . . . to the 
thousands of people who provide us with staff support here in the 
Capitol and in our home districts . . . for the men and women who are 
the face of our government, performing essential federal work every day 
in communities across our nation and especially for the public, which 
has placed its trust in us.
  There are sure to be multiple legislative proposals in response to 
this week's tragedy, but perhaps the best response is more simple and 
more personal. Speaker Boehner said an attack on one of us is an attack 
on all of us, and it will take a collective response from all of us to 
temper our rhetoric and return to a level of discourse that honors the 
victims of this week's senseless tragedy.
  Mrs. LOWEY. Madam Speaker, I rise in condemnation of the senseless 
attack that took place on Saturday, January 8th in Tucson, Arizona 
targeting Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords and other innocent men, 
women, and children.
  The families and friends of those victims who died in the attack--
Gabriel Zimmerman, U.S. District Judge John Roll, Phyllis Schenck, 
Dorwin Stoddard, Dorothy Morris, and nine-year-old Christina Taylor 
Green--are in all of our thoughts and prayers. It is heartbreaking that 
so many lost their lives as a result of the actions of one highly 
disturbed individual.
  We also hope and pray for the health of Gabby Giffords and fourteen 
other innocent individuals who were injured in this premeditated and 
indiscriminate act of violence. I pray that they will gain the strength 
to recover physically and emotionally from this horrific event.
  Gabby Giffords is a warm, kind, and spirited woman and a dedicated 
and hardworking representative. It is all the more tragic that this 
violent act occurred as she was fulfilling her most basic duty as a 
representative--solving government problems for her constituents and 
listening to their concerns and opinions about federal issues.

[[Page H194]]

  I commend the heroes of January 8th. Without the heroic actions of 
bystanders who subdued the shooter and those who administered first aid 
to the victims, as well as the first responders and medical personnel 
who saved victims' lives, the toll of fatalities and injuries surely 
would have been far worse.
  If anything positive could come of this horrifying event, I hope that 
self-reflection will result in a return to civility in our political 
discourse. Elected officials, media personalities, and political 
activists should make a real effort to turn down the temperature in 
heated rhetoric, carefully considering the actions it could incite, 
even if unintended, and the public at large must reject the incendiary 
language that has become too common.
  Those who died in Tucson on Saturday will not be forgotten, and 
justice will be served for the attacker who caused such heartbreak for 
so many. We all pray for the families of the victims, the recovery of 
the survivors, and a more civil and peaceful tomorrow.
  Mr. DEUTCH. Madam Speaker, just days ago, our nation was shaken by 
the brutal act of violence committed against Congresswoman Gabrielle 
Giffords and the constituents waiting in line to speak with her.
  The shots fired in Tuscon claimed the lives of several Americans, 
from a federal judge with decades of service to our country, to a young 
child participating in our great democracy for the very first time.
  Tragedies like this one tear at the fabric of our democracy, which is 
woven together by the everyday conversations that take place between 
ordinary people and those they elect to represent them in government.
  What started out as a routine morning in American political life--an 
elected representative listening to the thoughts and concerns of her 
community--ended in senseless bloodshed.
  As we pay tribute to those who fell victim to this violence, and as 
we pray for the swift recovery of Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords, we 
must also reaffirm ourselves to the work being done that morning before 
those shots rang out.
  Congresswoman Giffords enjoys such respect in this body not only 
because of her intellect and warmth but also because of her commitment 
to directly engaging with people. She believed--and every day put into 
action--that with sincere, hard work we can forge common ground, in our 
communities and as a nation.
  In a few days, when this body reconvenes and we resume the business 
of moving our nation forward, let us honor Congresswoman Giffords by 
keeping that sense of common purpose in the forefront of our minds as 
we work to overcome the many challenges faced by our nation.
  Ms. WATERS. Madam Speaker, the shooting of Congresswoman Gabrielle 
Giffords, and the killing and wounding of members of her staff and 
community attending her ``Congress on your Corner'' event, was a 
national tragedy.
  It is most appropriate that we speak out to share our sadness, sorrow 
and grief as well as our hopes for healing and recovery.
  I am encouraged that Gabby continues to defy the odds and is showing 
signs of progress. She is truly a survivor, with a strong will to live. 
I know that she faces a long and difficult path to recover from her 
injuries, and I hope that our support--together with the prayers and 
well wishes offered by the people of Arizona and indeed all of 
America--will help her and her family now and in the weeks and months 
ahead.
  Even as she copes with her own severe injuries, I am sure that Gabby 
is thinking of all the others who were killed and injured during the 
attack on her. Gabe Zimmerman, her director of community outreach, was 
killed. Two more members of her Congressional staff, Ron Barber and Pam 
Simon, were injured in the shooting. Congressional staff members help 
us, to help our constituents, but they often are not recognized or 
appreciated. Let us all remember that our staffers--and government 
workers generally--are committed to public service. They work hard, 
make many sacrifices, and they provide valuable, essential service.
  We are thinking also of residents of the Tucson community who 
attended this event to meet and speak with their elected 
representative, never sensing that they would be in harm's way.
  Christina Taylor Green, Dorothy Morris, John Roll, Phyllis Schneck, 
and Dorwan Stoddard were all killed in this senseless, brutal attack.
  I join my colleagues in expressing condolences to their families, 
friends and loved ones.
  In a matter of seconds, the gunman recklessly and viciously sprayed 
bullets in all directions. In addition to killing six people and 
wounding Congresswoman Giffords, he injured thirteen other people. We 
pray for their full and speedy recovery.
  In a democracy, it is not only common but moreover essential that 
citizens and their representatives freely communicate and exchange 
ideas, even opposing opinions. Unfortunately, violent events like the 
shooting in Tucson have a chilling effect on our ability to engage in 
our civic duties without fear. We must not give in to fear. At the same 
time, we absolutely must all do whatever is necessary to restore safety 
and security. We must rededicate ourselves to ending violence and 
promoting peace, and we must take necessary, commonsense steps to 
reduce the potential for killings like this.
  Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today to 
strongly support the resolution honoring the victims of the Arizona 
tragedy.
  I condemn the senseless act of violence that ended six lives too soon 
and injured many others, including one of our colleagues, 
Representative Gabrielle Giffords of Arizona.
  Representative Giffords is an indefatigable advocate for her 
constituents and a strong believer in the value of public service. She 
has worked day and night to improve her community and help those around 
her in need. Even when she's had a strong disagreement with a 
colleague--on either side of the aisle--she was always willing to work 
with those colleagues again. For her, disagreements do not foreclose 
cooperation. She truly embodies what it means to be a public servant.
  I want to commend the quick and heroic actions of the brave citizens 
who responded that day. In a frightful situation, when the natural 
response is to run in fear, Patricia Maisch, Roger Sulzeber, Joseph 
Zimudie, and Daniel Hernandez, Jr. took actions to help the injured and 
stop the attack. They risked their lives for the safety of others, and 
without their actions, it is likely many more lives may have been lost.
  Acts and threats of violence such as these have no place in our 
society and the voices of the American people will not be silenced or 
diminished because of these acts.
  As we pause to reflect on the tragic events of Saturday, we should 
make special efforts to remember those whose lives were senselessly 
taken: Gabe Zimmerman, Christina Taylor Green, Judge John M. Roll, 
Dorwin Stoddard, Dorothy Morris, Phyllis Schneck. We should remember 
their families in our prayers--and ask that they be comforted in their 
grief.
  Like so many others, words cannot adequately express my shock and 
sorrow over this tragedy. My thoughts and prayers are with all the 
affected families.
  Ms. FOXX. Madam Speaker, last Saturday our country suffered a 
terrible blow. In a senseless and despicable act of violence, a crazed 
gunman attempted to kill one of this body's finest members and our good 
friend, Congresswoman Gabby Giffords, while slaying six others and 
wounding many more,
  Gabby was gunned down while doing the very thing she was elected to 
do--listening to her constituents and soliciting their feedback. She 
was participating in a proud tradition of representative democracy, 
where democratically elected representatives interact with the 
constituents they represent in Washington.
  When the gunman pulled the trigger he was attacking not just a good 
and decent Member of Congress and her constituents, he was also 
attacking the freedom-loving people of America who every two years send 
public servants like Gabby to Washington to handle their interests in 
the Capitol.
  We must not tolerate this violence and the assault it represents on 
our democratic way of life. Make no mistake; there is no room for 
violence in our vigorous national debate.
  I pray for God's peace for all the victims of this tragic attack and 
swift healing for all those, especially Gabby, who are still fighting 
to recover. The House of Representatives is not whole without the 
smiling face of Gabby and I eagerly await the day when she returns to 
work on behalf of her constituents. They could ask for no finer person 
to represent them in Congress.
  Ms. LORETTA SANCHEZ of California. I rise today on behalf of my 
district in Orange County to offer my prayers and condolences to all 
those wounded and killed in the recent and tragic shootings in Tucson, 
Arizona. I want to honor my colleague and dear friend, Congresswoman 
Gabrielle Giffords, who remains in critical condition and those who 
lost their lives, Gabriel Zimmerman, Christina Green, John Roll, 
Dorothy Morris, Phyllis Schneck and Dorwin Stoddard.
  Gabby was doing what all Members of Congress must do, interact with 
their constituents and provide a venue for them to petition their 
government. It is a sad day in America when the basis of our democracy, 
the interaction between elected officials and those they represent, is 
put into jeopardy by those who wish to do us harm.
  Those lost on that day were robbed of life too early, like nine-year-
old Christina Green, whose life was bookended by tragedy. She was born 
on September 11, 2001, but strove at such a young age to be engaged in 
her community. Or the life of Gabby's close aide,

[[Page H195]]

Gabriel Zimmerman, who at 30 years old had made public service and 
helping those in the Eighth District of Arizona his purpose in life for 
the last 4 years. Judge John Roll dedicated his life to public service 
and understood the risks associated with controversial issues. And to 
remember those that left so many loved ones and memories behind, Dorwin 
Stoddard, Dorothy Morris, and Phyllis Schneck.
  I await the day that we welcome our colleague back into the House 
chamber and will continue to pray for those still in the care of 
doctors and those who have passed on.
  Mr. SMITH of Nebraska. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of the 
resolution before us honoring the victims and heroes of the tragic 
shooting in Tucson, Arizona, this past weekend.
  Today's action is a reflection on the victims of a deeply tragic, 
singular incident which changed so many lives forever and to renounce 
the barbaric actions taken by a single individual. We also honor those 
bystanders and first responders who reaffirmed our faith in humanity by 
risking their lives to save others.
  Today marks a time of healing as we celebrate the lives of those who 
were lost. Gabby is a colleague and a friend who is known for her 
civility and willingness to reach out. Her office was just a couple of 
doors down from mine on the fifth floor of Cannon our freshman year and 
I was her colleague on the House Science and Technology Committee 
through the 111th Congress. She is a consummate professional who is 
dedicated to her constituents and her country.
  Our prayers are with her and the other victims as they recover from 
this horrifying event. As we move forward, we should take strength in 
the outpouring of support from all corners of our country.
  Ms. CHU. Madam Speaker, this weekend, a horrible tragedy befell the 
city of Tucson, the State of Arizona and the Nation. One of our own, 
Representative Gabrielle Giffords, was doing her duty as a Member of 
Congress. She was out in the neighborhood, talking face to face with 
her constituents about their concerns and their problems. ``Congress on 
Your Corner'' was an event she had done before with success and she 
wanted to start the New Year with an open door to her constituents.
  When she arrived at the local Safeway, dressed in a red blazer, black 
slacks and black pumps, she greeted those in attendance, hugged each of 
her staff and gave a short speech. Then, constituents began asking 
questions, getting their photo taken, and asking for help. It was then, 
only minutes after the event began, that a young man, armed with a 
semiautomatic handgun with 33 deadly rounds, directly faced Gabby and 
shot her point blank in the head. But he didn't pause; he kept 
shooting. With such rapid fire, those waiting in line to speak to Gabby 
had no chance to escape his wrath.
  What happened in Tucson was not just about unspeakable tragedy. It 
was about heroic actions. When the gunman turned to flee, a brave but 
wounded bystander grabbed the shooter, as others came to his aid. One 
courageous older woman, Patricia Maisch, tried to wrestle a second 
magazine full of another 33 deadly bullets from him to protect others 
from his indiscriminate gunfire. She began shouting at him, even as she 
remained in danger. She raised the questions many of us asked when we 
heard of his horrible actions: ``How could you be so hateful? How could 
you do this?''
  As the paramedics and emergency responders attended to the scene, the 
true sorrow of the event became clear. Twenty patriotic Americans were 
shot, many severely. Six of them lost their lives for no reason other 
than that they participated in the democratic process.
  This tragedy has touched our Nation to its very core. The fact that 
this horrific event would occur during such an open democratic event 
has chipped away at our innocence as a country. The fact that some 
would rather turn to bullets instead of words to address differing 
opinions makes us feel as though our democratic process is under siege.
  However, it is my hope that the lives of those six brave souls will 
not be lost in vain, and that we can become even stronger as a Nation. 
Our Nation was founded on the premise that the American people have the 
right to elect their own leaders, to have their voices heard, and have 
a say in their own government. We fought, and many died, to protect 
that right. And no one is allowed to take that away from us.
  The American democratic process should not be one of anger and 
hateful words, but of discourse and discussion. After all our country 
has been through to protect our freedoms, we must maintain respect for 
one another and understand that the ability to share differing opinions 
is at the core of what makes our Nation so great.
  So it is in the spirit of respect and democracy that I support this 
resolution. My prayers go out to the families of the victims, all of 
the survivors, and to my friend Gabby Giffords, for a speedy and full 
recovery. To those who lost loved ones, words simply cannot express my 
feelings of sadness at such a devastating loss.
  Mr. HEINRICH. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the many 
victims of Saturday's tragic shooting in Tucson, Arizona, and to voice 
my hope for a full recovery for each of the survivors, particularly my 
colleague and friend, Representative Gabrielle Giffords. On behalf of 
me, my family, my staff, and the constituents of New Mexico's First 
Congressional District, I express our heartbreak at the attempted 
assassination, the devastation of so many innocent lives, and the 
senseless attack on our nation's Democratic process.
  Our thoughts and prayers go out to all the victims of this senseless 
tragedy, and especially to the friends and families of Judge John M. 
Roll, Gabe Zimmerman, Christina Taylor Green, Dorothy Morris, Phyllis 
Schneck and Dorwan Stoddard. We are grateful for the heroes who 
courageously intervened, the first responders and health care 
professionals and those who continue to assist the survivors in their 
recovery.
  Though she remains in critical condition, I know Gabby, and can 
attest to her nature as a fearless fighter. We've worked closely 
together on the House Armed Services Committee as clean energy 
advocates and as New Democrats. As the only member of Congress with a 
spouse on active-duty, she is a tireless advocate for military families 
and is unquestionably one of the most talented Democratic leaders of my 
generation. With all of that in mind, I am optimistic and hopeful that 
she will overcome this tragedy. Her recovery is important to our 
nations' future.
  Sadly, Saturday's assassin took advantage of an event which embodies 
the very essence of public service and the right to assemble without 
fear. Like Gabby, I hold these kinds of ``Congress On Your Corner'' 
events in my district to hear directly from my constituents, whether 
they agree with me or not. Listening to our constituents is a 
fundamental duty of each Member of Congress and provides an 
extraordinary opportunity to talk one-on-one in an inclusive and 
equitable environment. That our constituents would have to worry about 
violence as part of that process is unthinkable. We must continue to 
remain accessible to our constituents while taking appropriate measures 
going forward to protect their safety.
  As we pray for Gabby's recovery and for the families and friends of 
all of those impacted by Saturday's tragedy, let us honor their legacy 
by striving to reinforce the spirit of Democracy in which the victims 
sought to engage in on Saturday in Tucson. Together as a nation, we can 
have a vigorous debate without compromising the civility and respect 
for one another's human dignity that is core to our great Nation's 
principles.
  Mr. HALL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to speak in support of my 
friend and colleague, Gabrielle Giffords, who four days ago was the 
target of a malicious, senseless attack in Tucson, Arizona. In the 
aftermath of this tragedy, 6 have lost their lives, 12 were wounded, 
and Gabby is still in the hospital fighting for her life. She is a dear 
friend, and one of the most sincere, conscientious, and thoughtful 
members I have had the pleasure of working with.
  Gabby has so many friends in Congress and is an outstanding 
Congresswoman for her district and for the Committee on Science, Space, 
and Technology. She has served the last 2 years as the chairwoman of 
our Space and Aeronautics Subcommittee and has done a magnificent job 
overseeing our Nation's space program. The passion that she brings with 
her is always evident and she has been willing to ask the tough 
questions and work across the aisle in support of what she believes.
  Gabby loves her district and her constituents, and she is always 
finding a way to work her home state of Arizona into the discussion. I 
have been to her district with her to support solar energy and to the 
Cape with her to support the Shuttle flights. Perhaps it hurts even 
more that this shooting took place at an event that was organized so 
she could listen to her constituents and discuss how she represents 
their interests. She was doing her job, being accessible, and listening 
to the people she represents.
  Gabby is a beautiful young lady with a beautiful family, and a 
stepmother of two young children. It's hard to understand how someone 
could do something like that. In a moment's time, one person destroyed 
the lives of so many innocent victims. Events like this remind us of 
how fragile life can be and how in the blink of an eye, everything can 
change.
  I've been around a long time and have seen too many terrible 
senseless events; these are times when you feel helpless, and all you 
can do is pray and come together to display solidarity and support for 
those who have been affected. I will continue to pray every day for 
Gabby, her husband Astronaut Mark Kelly, her family, her staff, Judge 
John Roll, little 9-year old Christina Green, and the families of all 
the victims in this tragedy.

[[Page H196]]

  Mr. POLIS. Madam Speaker, last weekend, the world watched as what 
began as a sunny Saturday morning in southern Arizona ended in tragedy 
and horror for our Nation. Violence of this kind has no place in 
America, and our grieving Nation will spare no expense to find out how 
this tragedy happened and ensure that it can never be repeated.
  Last Saturday was a dark day in our Nation's history and a day which 
I will never forget. My thoughts and prayers are with Congresswoman 
Giffords, her family and her staff. My staff is my family, and I cannot 
comprehend why anyone could or would hurt a group of honest, hard-
working people united in their desire to serve the people of southern 
Arizona.
  I also join the Nation in honoring the lives of the six brave 
Americans who lost their lives in this senseless act of violence and in 
offering my support and best wishes for a speedy recovery to all those 
affected by this tragedy.
  Gabby Giffords is a good heart, a great mind, and one of the nicest 
Members of Congress with whom I have had the honor of serving. When I 
last saw her, at the airport just hours before the attack, she was 
going home to do exactly what we all do--what we were elected and what 
the people of this country expect us to do--working with constituents, 
listening to their concerns and being responsive to their needs.
  Saturday's attack came as a shock to me not just as a member of 
Congress, but because the violence reached beyond the realm of 
politics, and took the lives of innocent, ordinary Americans who took 
time out of their busy lives to participate in our democracy.
  As Members of Congress, when we sign up to serve our country we 
understand there is an inherent risk. But we never imagine our mere 
presence could so endanger innocent constituents wishing to voice their 
opinions. An attack at an event of this kind is an attack against that 
which makes our Nation great and must not be tolerated.
  Gabby is famous for her smile that could light up a room and her 
fearless tenacity to reach across the aisle to find solutions for the 
problems facing this Nation. In a tight race in a politically diverse 
district, Gabby was reelected three times because of her ability to 
find consensus in a sea of chaos and her willingness to fight, not for 
the left or for the right, but for what's best for the people of 
Arizona. If we, as a nation, can learn from our mistakes and take 
something away from this tragedy, let it be that we follow her 
footsteps and use our office and our government to unite rather than 
divide our healing Nation.
  Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today in honor of a 
dear friend and colleague Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords, as well as 
all of those who lost their lives or were injured during the tragic 
events of January 8, 2011, in Tucson, Arizona.
  Today the House gathers at an incredibly sad moment for our country. 
The events of January 8, 2011, are reprehensible and truly 
heartbreaking. I speak today of my close friend and an esteemed 
colleague in the Blue Dog Coalition, Gabby. Her leadership and 
compassion for the people she represents is a testament to the 
meaningful work she has accomplished during her tenure as a United 
States Representative. The legacy she has created is one of moderate 
and pragmatic leadership--qualities that are essential to the people of 
Arizona she so strongly represents, and to our country as a whole.
  In 2009, I had the opportunity to visited Gabby in her district. It 
was apparent how many folks she has touched with her work in the 
Arizona State Senate and the House of Representatives. Her passion for 
public service is truly an example we should all embrace.
  I would also like to recognize and honor the victims who lost their 
lives during this horrible tragedy: Christina Green, Dorothy Morris, 
Judge John Roll, Phyllis Schneck, Dorwan Stoddard and Gabriel 
Zimmerman, the Congresswoman's aide.
  I pray for a speedy recovery to everyone injured during this tragic 
event and hope for Gabby's quick return to Congress to do what she 
loves most, represent the people of Arizona's 8th
  Mr. KIND. Madam Speaker, I am extremely saddened by the senseless act 
of violence that occurred in Arizona. My thoughts and prayers go out to 
my close personal friend, Rep. Giffords, her family and all the victims 
of this terrible tragedy.
  Rep. Giffords is a hard-working, compassionate Member of Congress. 
This past weekend's event is particularly tragic because she was doing 
what all Members should be out doing, showing her dedication to her 
constituents and out listening to folks back home.
  During her time in Congress, I have worked with her on various 
initiatives through the efforts of the New Democrat Coalition. I have 
always been particularly impressed with her commitment to fiscal 
responsibility, deficit reduction, and advancing innovation and 
technology. She is a long-term thinker who has worked to promote 
initiatives that are important to both her district and the country.
  I would like to send my deepest sympathies to the families of Gabe 
Zimmerman, a committed member of her team in addition to Judge John M. 
Roll, Christina Taylor Green, Dorothy Morris, Phyllis Schneck, and 
Dorwan Stoddard. These individuals were engaging in the political 
process in the best way possible, by speaking directly to their 
representative. The exchange of ideas is critical to our democracy and 
it's important that Members of Congress continue to provide forums in 
which to meet with and listen to constituents. I have and will continue 
to make town halls and listening sessions a priority in western 
Wisconsin. At this time, we should also take this moment to remember 
that we can fight hard for the principles in which we believe with 
civility and consideration without compromising our values or the 
values of others.
  I also want to thank all the first responders, law enforcement and 
medical personnel whose quick actions helped prevent further loss of 
life. These individuals provide an invaluable service to all of our 
communities and I thank them for their dedicated work.
  I wish Gabby and all others involved a speedy recovery.
  Mr. BUTTERFIELD. Madam Speaker, I have come to the well today, not to 
make a long speech, for my colleagues have spoken so well, but to 
extend the heartfelt tribute to the affected families on behalf of the 
people of the first district of North Carolina.
  Madam Speaker, we must seize this senseless and tragic event as an 
opportunity for us to reconcile our differences and reduce the 
political tone in this country. The American people are demanding that 
we represent them with civility and a sense of enforcing the 
Constitution to keep America strong and provide for the general 
welfare.
  I pledge my part in making that happen.
  To those families who are living this unspeakable tragedy, we extend 
our condolences and prayers to your family. And we pray for a speedy 
recovery for our dear Colleague, Congresswoman Gabby Giffords, and the 
other great Americans who are victims of this tragedy.
  Mr. TONKO. Madam Speaker, I rise today on behalf of Congresswoman 
Giffords, her staff, the injured, those who lost their lives and all of 
their families and loved ones--all of whom remain in our thoughts and 
prayers following this past Saturday's horrible and tragic event. 
Having the opportunity to serve with Gabby on the Science and 
Technology Committee in Congress has truly been a blessing as she 
embraces the human spirit in all her work.
  Gabby is not a weathervane politician--she takes courageous votes 
that are supported by her keen intellect and engaging personality. Her 
quick wittedness and joy in providing service through her work as a 
Representative stands as testimony to us all.
  She is one of our Nation's brightest young leaders--intelligent, 
dedicated, effective and fair.
  I wish her and all the other injured victims in this senseless 
tragedy a quick and speedy recovery.
  Mr. WALZ. Madam Speaker, today I rise after some of the saddest days 
I have ever lived through. A friend and a colleague, an exemplary 
member of this body was gunned down while doing her job. Innocent lives 
were lost and a Nation grieves for their family and friends.
  Gabrielle is one of the finest public servants I have ever had the 
privilege of knowing. When Gabrielle and I first arrived here in the 
beginning of 2007, it was with a deep pride in our home districts and 
the commitment that we would do whatever it took to work hard for the 
people we were so honored to represent. Gabrielle's passion for her job 
and her constituents is an inspiration to me and to this Congress. My 
greatest hope is that she will recovery as quickly as possible and come 
back to join her colleagues who miss her. My wife Gwen and I are 
praying for her recovery and our thoughts are with her wonderful 
husband Mark and her wonderful family.
  Gwen, my staff and I all grieve for the loss of her Director of 
Outreach, Gabe Zimmerman and we are praying for the speedy recovery of 
Ron and Pam, two staffers who are still recovering from gunshot wounds.
  In a Politico story this week, Doug Hart, president for the Arizona 
Alliance for Retired Americans said of Gabe, ``He just had a heart for 
people.'' Politico also reported Gabe told the Tucson Citizen in 2007, 
``We serve who walks into our office and we don't even ask what party 
they belong to.'' In Gabe's memory, let us continue to serve our 
constituents to the best of our ability, regardless of their political 
beliefs. And today, let us remember Gabe and all those members of our 
own staff who come to work every day dedicated to helping the Americans 
we serve.
  I also want to express my deepest condolences to Judge John Roll's 
family. In the stories that have emerged in recent days, we can see he 
was a dedicated public servant and a distinguished member of our 
judicial system.

[[Page H197]]

  My thoughts and prayers are also with all the families of Gabrielle's 
constituents who were victims in this horrific attack. They were doing 
what we hope our constituents will do every day. Come to our events and 
lend us their wisdom and ideas. These civic minded Americans make our 
jobs possible and we grieve over losing them.
  As I think about the event that Gabrielle hosted on Saturday and the 
kind of Arizonians who attended her event, I am reminded of the very 
best in the American people. A young girl born in the depths of tragedy 
who wanted to make the world better for her classmates and her 
generation. A husband who's final act was protecting his wife. A 
passionate advocate for justice who wanted to share his thoughts with 
his Representative. They were all people who wanted to make a 
difference in the direction of the country they loved and their 
attendance at Saturday's event was no less than the dream and vision of 
our founding fathers.
  I don't know whether the heated political rhetoric caused the 
terrible events on Saturday. We may never know the answer to that 
question. But surely we can all agree that our politics have been too 
divisive, our debates too heated and our words too harsh.
  In the honor of the victims of Saturday's attack, we must rededicate 
ourselves to civility. To passionate, but never angry, public debate. 
To respectful disagreements. To rededicate ourselves to accessibility 
to the people we represent and to the notion that debate without 
violence is the cornerstone of our representative democracy.
  Mr. STARK. Madam Speaker, I join my colleagues in honoring 
Representative Giffords, mourning the victims of this senseless 
shooting, and lauding the heroism of those who endangered themselves to 
help those who were injured.
  Saturday's horrific shooting in Tucson of Representative Gabrielle 
Giffords, members of her staff, a federal judge, and innocent 
bystanders should never have happened. Representative Giffords was 
performing the most fundamental duty of a Member of Congress--she was 
making herself available to her constituents. It is something we all 
do--and something I strongly believe we must continue to do.
  My thoughts are with the victims, their family members and their 
friends at this time.
  I hope that we can learn from this tragedy.
  Violence has no place in our democracy. While the details of the 
shooting are still coming to light, we can all agree that political 
rhetoric and imagery that condones or encourages violence--whether from 
activists, party organizations, or politicians--is unacceptable. We can 
have differences of opinion on policy and still treat each other with 
humanity.
  Mr. BOSWELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Congresswoman 
Gabrielle Giffords, who is a courageous leader and fierce ally for her 
State of Arizona and for all Americans. Congresswoman Giffords, her 
staff, and her constituents were subjected to a tragic act of violence 
on January 8, 2011, when a gunman opened fire at a public event for the 
Congresswoman in Tucson, Arizona. The entire State of Iowa is praying 
for her recovery, and for the family members and loved ones of every 
American affected by the Arizona shooting.
  Madam Speaker, Congresswoman Giffords and I served on the House Armed 
Services Committee and are both members of the Blue Dog Coalition. I 
know firsthand her commitment to making our Nation better for all 
Americans. She is a tireless advocate for every man and woman in 
uniform and their families. Today, we are all praying not only for her 
recovery, but for her return to Congress.
  When Congresswoman Giffords, her staff, and her constituents gathered 
to participate in one of the most basic American rights in our great 
Nation--the right to civil discourse--no one expected the day to end 
tragically. The shooting on January 8, 2011, is a national tragedy and 
an attack on the right of every American to participate in free and 
open dialogue with the men and women they elect to represent them in 
Congress
  I would like to recognize Congresswoman Giffords's staff members who 
were wounded in the shooting, including Gabe Zimmerman, who lost his 
life, and the five other Americans who were killed: Christine-Taylor 
Green, Dorothy Morris, U.S. District Court Judge John Roll, Phyllis 
Schneck, and Dorwin Stoddard. We are all praying for their families and 
loved ones.
  Madam Speaker, today, our hearts are with our friend, Congresswoman 
Gabrielle Giffords.
  Mr. OLVER. Madam Speaker, on Saturday, Congresswoman Gabrielle 
Giffords, along with members of her congressional staff and 
constituents, were senselessly shot while attending a ``Congress on 
Your Corner'' event in Tucson. Those killed by the gunman--U.S. 
District Judge John Roll, Gabe Zimmerman, Christina Green, Dorothy 
Morris, Phyllis Scheck and Dorwin Stoddard--were citizens participating 
in the democratic process, meeting and speaking with their Member of 
Congress.
  Like everyone else, I was shocked by the news. This kind of deadly 
violence shakes a community and a nation to its core. The rapid, life-
saving action of Tucson's emergency responders and medical 
professionals and the acts of courage displayed by those at the event 
do, however, serve to remind us that the kindness of the human spirit 
can fight back in even the darkest of moments. My thoughts and prayers 
are with all those in Tucson, in particular the families of those who 
were injured or killed, and especially with my friend and outstanding 
colleague in the House, Gabrielle Giffords.
  In the four years I have served with Congresswoman Giffords, she has 
been a stalwart supporter of her district, her State and America's 
interests at home and abroad. It is impossible not to admire her 
commitment to the job of Representative and the passion with which she 
pursues her interests and policy agenda. I am proud to serve on the 
Sustainable Energy and Environment Coalition, where Gabby is an 
influential advocate for renewable energy. She is a positive, moderate, 
thoughtful voice in our Caucus, and it is my greatest hope that she 
will recover from this terrible tragedy and return as soon as possible 
to her job. We certainly need her and miss her.
  I don't believe that I have ever seen her without a smile on her 
face, which is quite a feat for someone working on Capitol Hill. She is 
a wonderful, upbeat and remarkable person.
  It is imperative that we begin to learn everything we can from what 
happened in Tucson. If we do not take what measures we can to prevent 
such violence from occurring in the future, we not only do a disservice 
to those who were harmed and killed on Saturday, but we betray our 
commitment to the participatory principles on which our democracy, 
which must serve as a political and social example to other nations, 
was founded. We should re-examine how we treat and care for those 
suffering mentally in our country. We must thoroughly discuss how 
individuals become eligible to purchase automatic weapons. And we must 
learn to communicate about our differences in ways that are more 
thoughtful and civil and that better promote aspiration to those 
qualities in all who hear or read our words.
  I continue to hope and pray for a full recovery for Congresswoman 
Giffords and the other injured victims and for a healing within for all 
those hurt internally by Saturday's events. Our Nation must continue to 
grow and become stronger in the face of this tragedy.
  Ms. WASSERMAN SCHULTZ. Madam Speaker, I solemnly rise in support of 
this resolution.
  We come together today in tribute to Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords 
and all of the innocent victims of a deranged gunman's actions in 
Tucson, Arizona.
  This past weekend, our Nation witnessed a horrifying and tragic act 
of violence that took the lives of six, and left many others wounded, 
including our friend and colleague, Gabby.
  Gabby is one of my closest friends and my thoughts and prayers are 
with her husband Mark, Gabby's parents, and their family as they 
struggle to get through this unimaginable tragedy.
  I pray for her full recovery and the recovery of the other victims of 
this horrific act of senseless violence. I also pray for the Tucson 
community and for our Nation.
  While she and the others wounded in this attack struggle to recover, 
we pause to honor those we have lost.
  They were Americans from every walk of life, and from every season in 
the journey of life. They died exercising freedoms that make this 
country so special--the freedom to petition their government and speak 
freely to their elected representatives.
  They include:
  Christina Taylor Green, a 9-year-old girl just elected to her student 
council who wanted to see her Congresswoman in action;
  A Federal judge--John McCarthy Roll--who stopped by to thank his 
colleague for working with him on immigration matters;
  Gabe Zimmerman, a 30-year-old congressional caseworker who brought 
compassion to his community outreach work; and
  Three additional victims who were vibrant and active retirees like so 
many in my home district in South Florida--Phyllis Schneck, 79, Dorwan 
Stoddard, 76, and Dorothy Morris, 76.
  Now, anyone who knows Gabby, knows that she is one of the most kind, 
thoughtful, and optimistic people you will meet. She has the sunniest 
disposition and sees the good in everyone--even people who most 
wouldn't. So it is particularly unbelievable that she would be the 
target of a deranged individual with anti-government views. When I 
heard the news, I thought, ``Not Gabby?''
  She is also deeply committed to the principles of public discourse 
and vibrant democracy that brought her face to face with her 
constituents on Saturday. She simply represents the very best of what a 
public servant should be.

[[Page H198]]

  So I would be misleading you if I said I understand why this 
happened, I do not. Perhaps it is impossible to make sense of a mind so 
full of hate, so deranged and so broken.
  And I cannot tell you with any certainty that the acrimony and 
political vitriol that are so prevalent in our society today 
contributed to spurring this madman. But I fear that his deep-seated 
distrust of our government contributed to his actions.
  We must move forward--but how? How do we honor the victims of this 
tragedy? How do we protect our society from such hatred?
  I have looked in my own heart, and what I know is that we need each 
other right now. Though our hearts are heavy, we must be steadfast in 
our determination to uphold the American spirit and the principles of 
our democracy for which Gabby has so vigorously fought.
  I believe we should use this moment to remind each other, remind all 
Americans and remind the world that the strength of our convictions, 
the strength of our democracy, comes from our unity of purpose.
  Yes, as public servants and passionate advocates we have, and we 
will, disagree on policies of the day, sometimes vigorously. That is as 
it should be.
  But I have no doubt that every person in this chamber loves our 
country, staunchly defends our Constitution, and brings to this body a 
desire to see a more perfect union. Let us show the world the truth of 
these words.
  I can say it no better than the words that conclude our Declaration 
of Independence. In this sacred document, our founding fathers call for 
us to ``mutually pledge to each other our lives, our Fortunes, our 
sacred Honor.''
  Indeed--if we are not joined in the united effort to strengthen our 
democracy--then we risk allowing those that hate all that we stand for, 
rip us asunder.
  As Speaker Boehner so eloquently said, ``An attack on one who serves 
is an attack on all who serve.'' So we must pledge to come together, to 
work together, and to be together.
  Let us rededicate ourselves to doing so with a new tone of civility 
in our public discourse. Let us show the world that there is so much 
more that unites us than divides us.
  And when we do disagree, we know that we solve those differences not 
with violence, but with words and with our vote.
  We are united in the pursuit so eloquently put by President Abraham 
Lincoln, ``that government of the people, by the people, and for the 
people, shall not perish from the earth.''
  I finish by noting that Gabby has always exemplified the Jewish ideal 
of tikkun olam--repairing and healing the world. May we all come 
together in this beautiful message of healing--for our wounded world, 
our beloved friend, and all the victims of this tragedy.
  May the strength with which Gabby has healed the world, and the 
spirit of tikkun olam in turn heal her, the other wounded, and the 
families of those who lost loved ones.
  Madam Speaker, it is with a somber heart that I rise to voice my 
strong support for H. Res. 32.
  This resolution condemns the horrific attack that took place in 
Tucson this past weekend, honors the memory of all those who lost their 
lives in the attack, and expresses hope for a complete recovery for all 
those wounded in the attack, including our friend and colleague, 
Representative Gabrielle Giffords.
  Today--we recognize and honor the service of Representative Giffords, 
a dedicated public servant and truly exceptional Member of Congress.
  We also recognize the bravery of those heroes and first responders, 
who saved lives and prevented the deranged gunman from doing further 
damage.
  The ability to resolve problems and conflicts in a non-violent manner 
is a bedrock value of our system of government.
  Saturday's cowardly attack is an assault on the very principles that 
we as Americans hold dear.
  I urge my colleagues to cast a vote to condemn hatred, and honor 
those innocent individuals who were impacted by this heinous act of 
violence.
  The thoughts and prayers of Barbara and I go out to the families of 
those who lost their lives in this terrible tragedy, and we continue to 
pray for a full recovery for Representative Giffords and all other 
victims.
  Madam Speaker, I rise to add some additional remarks to my earlier 
statement in support of H. Res. 32.
  In this time of grieving for all of us, it is important we take this 
moment to recognize and honor the six individuals who lost their lives 
in this heinous crime.
  Christina Taylor Green was a 9-year-old child, recently elected to 
the student council at Mesa Verde Elementary School.
  Dorothy Morris, 76, was married to her husband George for over 50 
years. George was also at the shooting and courageously tried to shield 
his wife from the attack.
  John Roll, 63, had an outstanding legal career, culminating in his 
service as Chief Judge for the District of Arizona. He and his wife 
Maureen had three children and five grandchildren.
  Phyllis Schneck, 79, a New Jersey native, was spending the winter in 
Arizona. She was a church volunteer and a proud mother of three, and 
grandmother of seven.
   Dorwan Stoddard, 76, was also a church volunteer and also shielded 
his wife, Mary, during the attack.
  Gabriel Zimmerman, 30, was engaged to be married and was known 
throughout the community as a man of great character for his work in 
Representative Giffords' office.
  Let us stand together to honor the lives of these individuals, and 
offer our heartfelt condolences to the families, friends, and loved 
ones they leave behind.
  I urge my colleagues to reaffirm our commitment to a democracy in 
which all peoples can participate without intimidation or fear of 
violence, and support today's resolution.
  Again, the thoughts and prayers of Barbara and I go out to the 
victims and families impacted by this tragedy, and we continue to pray 
for a swift recovery for Representative Giffords and all others wounded 
in this terrible tragedy.
  Mr. BISHOP of New York. Madam Speaker, I rise today to join my 
colleagues in supporting the Resolution before us today, and to express 
my deepest condolences for the families of those killed in the tragic 
shooting in Tucson, Arizona, on January 8. I also offer my prayers for 
a speedy and full recovery to my friend and colleague, Gabby Giffords, 
as well as to all those wounded in the attack.
  This past Saturday was a dark day for this chamber and our nation. 
Gabby Giffords is one of the hardest-working members of this House, and 
has proven herself to be an energetic representative of her district's 
interests and a thoughtful stateswoman. She is loved and admired by her 
colleagues and her constituents in the Eighth District of Arizona, who 
are fortunate and grateful that she survived this terrible attack.
  But there are six others who will not be returning to their families 
and friends as a result of this tragedy, and I know Gabby would want 
the focus to be on them. One of the six, Gabby's Outreach Director 
Gabriel Zimmerman, was a Federal employee killed while helping Gabby 
better represent her constituents.
  Madam Speaker, I grieve for our nation when a 9-year-old girl seeking 
to meet her Congresswoman becomes a target for murder. I fervently hope 
that all Americans, especially those of us honored with the public 
trust, view this tragedy as a moment to take personal responsibility 
for building a safer, more civil and better future.
  We are praying for you, Gabby, and for the families of all those 
affected by this senseless tragedy.
  Mr. SIRES. Madam Speaker, I rise today in honor of Congresswoman 
Gabrielle Giffords, her staff, and all the victims of the Tucson 
tragedy.
  On January 8, Representative Giffords was hosting an event to simply 
engage with her constituents. At that event, a man fired shots at the 
Congresswoman, her staff, and the assembled crowd.
  Due to this senseless act, six people are dead and fourteen others 
are injured, including the Congresswoman, who remains in critical 
condition.
  I have had the pleasure to serve on the House Committee on Foreign 
Affairs with Congresswoman Giffords, and it has been nothing less than 
an honor to work with her. Her passion and commitment to her 
constituents and her country is unyielding, and she has always 
approached her work in Congress with the attention and respect that it 
deserves. I was shocked and saddened to hear of this attack.
  On Saturday morning, six people attended an event held by their local 
representative, and for this, they lost their lives. In a democratic 
country that symbolizes hope and freedom for so many, it is difficult 
to witness and impossible to understand this hateful act.
  My thoughts and prayers, along with those of all Americans, go out to 
the Giffords' family, the families of the Congresswoman's staff, and 
all those impacted by this tragedy.
  I would also like to thank that day's heroes for their quick 
reactions that undoubtedly saved many lives. The actions of these 
individuals and the outpouring of support from around the country give 
us all strength during this difficult time.
  Mr. GEORGE MILLER of California. Madam Speaker, I rise to join my 
colleagues to honor those who died and were wounded in Tucson, Arizona 
this past Saturday. The senseless rampage took the lives of six 
remarkable people and forever altered the lives of their families, 13 
other people who were wounded, and each of their families. This tragedy 
has touched the soul of our Nation and we will not forget it.
  Like my colleagues and Americans throughout our country, I am deeply 
saddened and

[[Page H199]]

disturbed by the events that took place as our colleague, Congresswoman 
Gabrielle Giffords, conducted her outdoor constituent town meeting in 
Tucson. To the families of those who died I offer my heartfelt 
condolences. And for my colleague, Gabby, as we call her, and her 
family, and to the other victims and their families, I offer my prayers 
as they receive urgent medical treatment and begin their recovery.
  I share in the comments that so many of my colleagues have already 
made about Gabby. She has worked hard and contributed much. She is a 
highly respected colleague and a courageous representative for Arizona 
and our country. The attack on Congresswoman Giffords and her staff and 
constituents is deplorable and represents an attack on all Americans.
  I also join my colleagues in saluting the heroism of four men and 
women who subdued the shooter and attended to Gabby immediately after 
she was shot. These men and women truly made a difference on that 
Saturday. They deserve our praise and admiration.
  Madam Speaker, the responsibility for this tragedy lies with the 
shooter, someone who had earlier been identified as needing mental 
health care and who should never have been able to obtain a gun. 
Thankfully, he is in custody and his fate is now in the hands of our 
law enforcement and judicial system.
  But while he will be tried for his act, this attack has raised in all 
of us a deep and gnawing question that must be unanswered. How can we 
improve ourselves after this tragedy?
  Everyone who meets Congresswoman Giffords knows she is not an angry 
woman. She has sought to balance the diverse interests of her district 
while doing what she believes to be in the best interest of our 
country. Yet she was attacked, vilified and denounced by extreme 
political factions who sought to demonize her for what she believed as 
a member of Congress.
  We cannot undo the events of Saturday, January 8, but we can and 
should commit ourselves to a more responsible level of political 
discourse in America. I hope we can all learn from the events in 
Tucson, that in the name of Gabby and all of the victims of this deadly 
shooting, we can commit ourselves to strengthen our Nation, not fight 
each other, to be able to disagree with each other without hating or 
demonizing one another for it.
  Madam Speaker, thank you for this opportunity to pay tribute to 
Congresswoman Giffords, her staff, her constituents, and everyone 
touched by the tragedy that unfolded on Saturday in Tucson.
  Mr. DesJARLAIS. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of House 
Resolution 32.
  I am pleased that Members of the House of Representatives came 
together today to speak with a unified voice in both condemning this 
heinous attack, and expressing our condolences to the friends and 
families of all the innocent victims that were killed or wounded due to 
this horrific act of violence.
  This resolution reaffirms the democratic principles that 
Congresswoman Giffords herself espoused when she read the First 
Amendment of the Constitution during the opening week of the 112th 
Congress--the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to 
petition the government for a redress of grievances.
  It is critical that we send a message that threats of violence and 
intimidation will not prevent Americans from participating in the 
democratic process.
  It is my hope to once again work alongside my colleague, 
Congresswoman Giffords, as we seek to find solutions to problems that 
we face as a nation.
  May God bless the victims of this tragedy, their families and all 
Americans.
  Mrs. CAPITO. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of House 
Resolution 32 to honor the victims of the senseless act of violence 
that took place in Tucson on Saturday.
  Six members of the Arizona community lost their lives and one of our 
own, Gabby Giffords, has been gravely injured. It's hard to find the 
words to describe the deep sorrow we all feel for the families and 
friends of the shooter's victims.
  His actions have shown us human behavior at its darkest, but the 
heroes of the day represent our society at its best. The innocent 
bystanders quickly rallied to curtail the gunman and perform triage on 
the victims. The American people are humbled by the bravery of those 
who put themselves in harm's way and grateful for the talented first 
responders and medical professionals who have compassionately cared for 
the wounded.
  As we've all come to know, Gabby is a fighter. With the help of the 
thoughts and prayers of millions of Americans who are wishing for her 
speedy recovery, Gabby has beat the odds and has thus far made a 
remarkable turn for the better. We should all be inspired by Gabby's 
strength.
  Madam Speaker, we cannot forget that this tragedy occurred as Gabby 
was performing her most fundamental duty as an elected representative: 
listening to the people. This attack is quite literally an assault on 
the very democratic values which we seek everyday to uphold in this 
Chamber. As we struggle with how to handle the aftermath of this 
tragedy, let us reflect on the values that make our country great.
  Mr. RUPPERSBERGER. Madam Speaker, my heart goes out to all of the 
victims of the terrible tragedy--those that were killed or injured, 
their families and the entire Tucson community. I extend my condolences 
to all of the members of the Arizona delegation.
  My thoughts and prayers are with Gabby. I know she is a fighter. I 
recall our trip together to the Middle East. We met with the presidents 
of Israel, Lebanon and Syria before we traveled to Iraq, where we 
walked down the streets of Baghdad together. I was so impressed by her 
courage and commitment to the troops on the frontline.
  It is unthinkable to me that Gabby was safer in Baghdad than here in 
her own country. Every American has a right to express their opinion on 
whatever issue they choose, but there is no place in our society for 
this kind of hatred and violence. No one should have to think twice 
about their safety when they go to speak to their Congressman or attend 
a town hall meeting. This has been an attack not only on Gabby, her 
staff and her innocent constituents, but the democratic process itself.
  With every negative, we should put forth our best effort to find a 
positive. It is my hope that this horrific tragedy will bring our 
country and our Congress together. Our forefathers created a great 
system of government. Unfortunately, I don't think the spiteful 
partisanship of today is what they had in mind. We must be tolerant of 
other views--to tone down the ill-natured rhetoric--and discuss our 
opinions respectfully. The negative and personal attacks against one 
other must stop.
  I hope that Gabby makes a speedy recovery and can soon return to this 
floor where she will continue to be an example of courtesy and civility 
to us all. I yield the balance of my time.
  Ms. CLARKE of New York. Madam Speaker, I rise on behalf of the people 
of New York's 11th congressional district to offer my thoughts and 
prayers to Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords, her staff, constituents, 
and all those affected by this tragic shooting. I am truly shocked, 
horrified and deeply saddened by this senseless act of violence. I take 
time to reflect on those who lost their lives, including a Federal 
judge, a 9-year-old girl, and one of Congresswoman Giffords' staff. I 
pray for a swift recovery for the wounded and offer my heartfelt thanks 
to those who rushed in to offer aid.
  I consider Gabby, as she is affectionately called, to be a wonderful 
colleague whom I have the pleasure of serving alongside on important 
issues such as immigration reform. She has demonstrated exemplary 
leadership and is a very well respected Member of the House of 
Representatives.
  While we do not know the motive, we do know that the time has come 
for us to tone down our rhetoric and partisanship. We are responsible 
for our words and must respect those who hold different points of view. 
Our constituents and the world at large should see us as examples of 
civility, peaceful debate and democracy. Regardless of one's political 
affiliation, we must learn to respectfully agree to disagree. There are 
several issues before Congress that would benefit all Americans and 
many people overseas but often times have been marginalized by 
partisanship. Our constituents expect us to work for them and not allow 
politics to get in the way of governing.
  Finally, this shooting has many of us thinking about the security and 
safety of our constituents when we are back home holding town hall 
meetings, meeting with constituents and doing the people's work. Many 
people die or are wounded daily from gun violence and many suffer from 
mental illnesses that are either not properly diagnosed or treated. 
This tragedy provides the opportunity to further discuss mental health 
and gun control legislation.
  Madam Speaker, let us, as Members of Congress, reaffirm our 
commitment to work on behalf of our constituents--those who sent us 
here to represent their interest. Let us do our part to build a better 
Nation and world.
  Mr. COSTELLO. Madam Speaker, I join our colleagues today in offering 
my condolences to the victims and families of last weekend's shooting 
in Tucson, Arizona. They are in our thoughts and prayers during this 
extremely difficult time. Our friend Congresswoman Giffords remains in 
the hospital, and we are hopeful that her recovery will continue to 
progress and that she will be back here on the House floor in the near 
future.
  The passage of a few days has done little to make this attack any 
more comprehensible. As much as anything, it is a chilling reminder of 
the fragile nature of our lives. It gives us all pause that Gabrielle 
was hurt doing the same things that we do every day as part of 
representing our constituents, that staff members were killed and 
injured as part of their service, and that in a public setting such as 
this we cannot absolutely guarantee anyone's safety.

[[Page H200]]

  As I said immediately after the event, without drawing conclusions 
about what happened here, I hope that as a country we agree to tone 
down the volume and animosity that has become so much a part of our 
political discourse. We can disagree without being enemies.
  Madam Speaker, contrary to popular belief, most, if not all of us, 
ran for office because we want to help people--because we believe we 
have something to offer through public service. That is certainly true 
for Gabrielle. Through our grief, despite the potential risks, I think 
we still all agree that this work is worth doing, that we can and do 
make a difference, and that with Gabrielle as our example, we must push 
ahead as a country, as a society, to help each other the best that we 
can.
  Mr. DANIEL E. LUNGREN of California. Madam Speaker, I yield back the 
balance of my time.
  The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursuant to the order of the House of today, 
the previous question is ordered on the resolution and on the preamble.
  The question is on the resolution.
  The resolution was agreed to.
  A motion to reconsider was laid on the table.

                          ____________________