On the recordJanuary 12, 2011
I rise on behalf of the people of Oregon's Second District to offer my deepest sympathies to the families of the victims of Saturday's senseless shooting in Tucson. Americans see each of us taking this personally, because Congresswoman Giffords and her staff were doing what each of us does in our own way: We go home; we reach out to listen to people who agree and disagree, and we practice the art of democracy. It is a practice so fundamental to our Nation that families bring their young children who are interested in public service; senior judges attend to discuss Federal policy, and citizens come to get help with their Medicare or Veterans Affairs benefits. No one comes thinking such a despicable act of violence will occur. Despite deep philosophical differences, sometimes argued vigorously and vociferously in our meetings, Americans share a common belief that violence has no place in democratic discourse. In Romans 12:1, Paul writes, "Don't be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good." We stand together across America committed to this calling and in the belief that the great good in America will always overcome the isolated evil. May God's healing hand be on our colleague and those affected and bring comfort to all.
