Cliff Stearns: “I thank my distinguished colleague; and on behalf of myself and my constituents from the Sixth Constitution District in…”

“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. 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.”