Local lawmakers express shock from shooting

Published 12:00 am Saturday, January 8, 2011

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Several N.C. lawmakers commented Saturday after U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, D-Ariz., and others were shot in Arizona.
U.S. Sen. Kay R. Hagan, D.C., said the shooting was “an absolute tragedy.”
“My thoughts and prayers are with Congresswoman Giffords, her family and staff, and the families of those injured and killed,” said the e-mail released by Hagan.
U.S. Sen. Richard Burr, R-N.C., called it “a senseless shooting.” He said he and his wife, Brooke, were shocked and saddened by the incident.
“Our thoughts and prayers go out to all the victims and families affected by this tragic event,” Burr said.
U.S. Rep. Mel Watt, D-N.C., said in a television interview that “I don’t think you can live your life worrying about the prospect that some deranged individual or group is going to engage in an act of this kind.
“If we are at that point in our country then our country is in a lot worse shape than I’d ever imagined.” he said.
U.S. Rep. Larry Kissell, D-N.C. issued the following statement:
“I am honored to not only call Congresswoman Giffords a colleague, but also a true friend. Her selfless hard work on behalf of the people of her district is a true testament to her dedication to helping others.
“I ask you to join me in praying for Gabby’s recovery, as well as all of the victims and families that have been touched by this senseless tragedy. My staff and I will be keeping Gabby, her family and all members of her staff in our thoughts and prayers as we try to make sense of this deplorable act.”