Arizona’s Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords announced today that she is retiring from Congress so she can continue her rehabilitation work. Gifford was shot in the head a little more than a year ago during her public appearance with constituents in Tucson.
Giffords is expected to turn in her resignation letter this coming week. The letter will be received by House Speaker John Boehner and Arizona Governor Jan Brewer.
See Gifford’s statement: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nguu0TkCTd4&feature=youtu.be
This afternoon’s statement from Arizona Governor Jan Brewer:
“Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords has been a noble public servant to the State of Arizona, and a model of what can be accomplished with persistence and determination. Her remarkable recovery over the last year is an inspiration to us all.
“As with all Americans, I will continue to hold Gabby in my thoughts and prayers as she continues on this path toward recovery.
“Upon the Congresswoman’s office being officially declared vacant, I will call a special Primary and General Election in order to fill the 8th Congressional District vacancy, in accordance with Arizona law. The winner will complete the remainder of Congresswoman Giffords’ term, which expires at the end of 2012.”
House Democrats release statement on Giffords’ resignation
STATE CAPITOL, PHOENIX – House Democrats issued the following statement Sunday from Assistant House Democratic Leader Steve Farley on Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords’ resignation:
“House Democrats thank Congresswoman Giffords for her service and her willingness to put her life on the line to make Arizona a better place for all families through her work on jobs, veterans and the economy. She humbly gave Arizona a voice in Washington and selflessly dedicated her life to her constituents. She has always been a true friend and always will be. We can’t thank her enough and look forward to her swift recovery and working with her in the future.”
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