Statements On Ariz. Shooting

Here are some relevant statements on the Saturday shooting of U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords and many others at the congresswoman's public event in Tucson, Ariz.:

- President Obama, at 3:38 p.m.:

This morning, in an unspeakable tragedy, a number of Americans were shot in Tucson, Arizona, at a constituent meeting with Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords. And while we are continuing to receive information, we know that some have passed away, and that Representative Giffords is gravely wounded.

We do not yet have all the answers. What we do know is that such a senseless and terrible act of violence has no place in a free society. I ask all Americans to join me and Michelle in keeping Representative Giffords, the victims of this tragedy, and their families in our prayers.

Later, Mr. Obama delivered further remarks from the White House. "We are going to get to the bottom of this, and we’re going to get through this," he said.

- Massachusetts' 5th District Rep. Niki Tsongas, at 5:13 p.m.:

It was with great sadness and shock that I learned of the senseless attack against Congresswoman Gabby Giffords and over a dozen others in Tucson this morning. Gabby is a wonderful, caring, and dedicated colleague and friend whom I have the pleasure of serving with on the Armed Services Committee. It was just yesterday that we sat next to each and talked during a Democratic Steering Committee meeting. My thoughts are with Gabby and her husband and all of those who are fighting for their lives at this hour and with the families who lost loved ones as a result of this horrible tragedy.

- Massachusetts' 6th District Rep. John Tierney, at 5:21 p.m.:

This is a terrible, personal tragedy and our hearts ache for Gabbie, her family, and her staff. Gabbie is a good person first, and a smart and honorable Member of Congress as well. This type of incident cannot be condoned if our nation is to continue as a Democratic Republic. Again, Patrice and I are shocked and saddened and will be thinking of Gabbie and her family, her staff, her constituents and our nation during this difficult time.

- Former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney, at 5:28 p.m.:

Today's horrifying shooting in Tucson shocks the conscience of decent Americans everywhere. When such an unspeakable act occurs, and lives are taken in violence, we rightly respond with comfort and support because that is the only way we know to show that evil does not triumph over goodness in the world. I offer my prayers to all the victims and their families, including Representative Gabrielle Giffords, and look forward to the swift and harsh punishment that awaits the perpetrator of this cowardly attack.

- Massachusetts' 7th District Rep. Ed Markey, at 7:28 p.m.:

Today’s news of the shooting of my colleague Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, members of her staff and her constituents is shocking and horrifying, and my deepest condolences go out to the families of those who lost their lives today in such a senseless and tragic event. Gabby is a true Congressional Superstar – savvy, sharp, sincere and as sunny as the state she heralds from. Gabby was doing today what she loved best, and what all of us in Congress consider a great responsibility and a true honor - to meet with and listen to our constituents. My thoughts and prayers are with her and her family, and with all of those wounded today in the hopes for a full and speedy recovery.