Chris Van Hollen: “On January 8, 2011 the nation was shocked and saddened by a senseless act of violence against a member of the House…”

“On January 8, 2011 the nation was shocked and saddened by a senseless act of violence against a member of the House, Congresswoman Gabby Giffords. That attack injured her and killed six innocent bystanders, including a Congressional staff, Gabe Zimmerman. Gabe, a 30-year-old social worker, began work for Congresswoman Giffords in 2007, supervising the constituent services operation and helping the people of Arizona's Eighth Congressional District resolve problems with Federal agencies and obtain government services. He was promoted to Director of Community Outreach, using his considerable talent and energy to engage citizens and make Congress accessible to them. In that capacity, he planned Congresswoman Giffords' ``Congress on Your Corner'' event on January 8 and was at her side that day. We continue to mourn his loss and pray for his family and friends. Gabe Zimmerman's life is a testament to the selfless work performed by Congressional staff every day for the American people. Today, we designate a room in the Capitol as the ``Gabriel Zimmerman Meeting Room'' to honor his work and recognize the dedication that he and all staff show to their country.”