Arizona Representative Gabrielle
Giffords remains in critical condition after being shot in the head
on Saturday.
Six people, including a federal judge,
are among the dead after a troubled young man went on a shooting
rampage at a Tucson, Arizona rally outside a supermarket.
Giffords, a 40-year-old Democrat, was
taken to a nearby hospital, where she remains unconscious.
Police arrested 22-year-old Jared Lee
Loughner at the scene and are searching for a second suspect.
After her House victory in 2006,
Giffords thanked the Human Rights Campaign (HRC), the nation's
largest gay rights advocate, and the gay community for its support.
“I have stood up for equality in
Arizona, and I am grateful that HRC and the GLBT community stood with
our campaign during the primary and the general elections. We can
accomplish so much for our families when we work together. Fairness
is an essential American value, and when we champion fairness, we can
win decisive victories in even the most competitive congressional
districts.”
HRC President Joe Solmonese said he was
saddened by the news.
“We are shocked and saddened by the
events involving Congresswoman Giffords and our hearts go out to her
and the other victims of this awful tragedy,” he said in a
statement. “Gabby Giffords is a champion for LGBT equality and a
principled leader for Arizona. We wish her a speedy recovery as our
thoughts and prayers are with her family as well as with the families
of all of those touched by today's horrific violence.”