With malice toward none . . .

Some comments from top leaders and political figures about the shocking shooting yesterday that critically wounded Rep. Gabrielle Giffords (D-AZ) and killed at least 6 others in Tucson, Arizona.

"It's not surprising that today Gabby was doing what she always does,
listening to the hopes and concerns of her neighbors. That is the essence of
what our democracy is about.

"Gabby Giffords was a friend of mine. She is not only an extraordinary
public servant, but she is also somebody who is warm and caring. She is well
liked by her colleagues and well liked by her constituents." ~ President
Barack Obama.

"We do not know yet the motivation behind these shootings. But what we do know
is that there is simply no justification, no rationale for such senseless and
appalling violence in our society." ~ Vice President Joe Biden.

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"Ms. Giffords represents a new generation of principled and thoughtful political
leaders that have come to Washington in recent years." ~ Defense Secretary
Robert Gates

"We at the Tea Party Express are shocked and saddened to hear about the terrible
tragedy that took place in Tucson today. It is appalling that anyone would
commit such unthinkable violence against Congresswoman Gabrielle Gifford, her
staff, a sitting federal judge and the many other victims and families impacted."
~ Tea Party Express Chairman Amy Kremer.

Full Los Angeles Times story here.

Rep. Gabrielle Giffords' favorite quote (from her Facebook page):

"With malice toward none, with charity for all, ... let us strive on to finish
the work we are in, ... to do all which may achieve and cherish a just and
lasting peace among ourselves and with all nations."

Other victims include baseball legend Dallas Green's granddaughter, Christina-Taylor Green (born on September, 11, 2001), U.S. District Judge John M. Roll, Gabe Zimmerman (Giffords' 30-year-old communications outreach director who was engaged to be married), Dorthy Morris, 76, Phyllis Schneck, 79, and Dorwin Stoddard, 76.

Other victims include Stoddard's wife, Mavanell, who was shot in the leg but is expected to recover,

Also injured but expected to recover are staffer Pam Simon and deputy director Ron Barber.

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Prayers for "a just and lasting peace among ourselves . . . "