A Tragedy in Tucson
Our nation once again is dealing with the aftermath of a tragedy. Last Saturday, one of my colleagues was meeting with her constituents in Tucson. It's the type of event that every Member of Congress has done many times.
Gabrielle Giffords was shot in the head and then the gunman turned the gun on others in the crowd. Modern day American heroes rushed toward the gunman and took him to the ground. Another bystander kicked away the ammunition so he could not reload.
It has become clear that this attack was not political, but a horrifying act by a deeply disturbed young man. Several people, including a federal judge and a nine-year-old girl, have died from injuries they suffered when they simply went to meet their representative to Congress. Remarkably, Gabby survived this attempt on her life. Her doctors are very optimistic that she will recover.
As Speaker Boehner said, ‘an attack on one who serves is an attack on all of us.' There has been much talk about whether this incident will keep lawmakers from meeting with their constituents. I do believe that we should take common sense precautions to protect not only ourselves, but also our constituents.
I will not, however, let this tragedy deter me from doing my job. I serve in the people's House and it is important that I hear directly from you. I remain committed to reaching out and serving the constituents of Missouri's Sixth District by representing their views in Washington.
Sincerely,
