Rep. Peter Welch
Gabby Giffords is one of my closest friends in Congress. A persistent and effective legislator, she stands out for her warmth, genuine attentiveness and concern for all. Gabby is one of the best listeners I know. Her kindness and graciousness know no bounds.
As this tragic situation develops, Margaret and I are keeping Gabby, her family, her staff and the many others involved in this horrific episode in our thoughts and prayers.
Sen. Patrick Leahy
Vermonters' deepest sympathies are with the victims and their families, and so is our solidarity with them.
We hope and pray for the recovery of Congresswoman Giffords and all who were injured. We mourn the loss of Chief Judge John Roll of the Federal District Court of Arizona and offer our condolences to his family, friends and staff.
This mass shooting at a public gathering targeting public officials, citizens and staff adds another layer of concern to this tragedy. Any assault on representative democracy must not be allowed to succeed in thwarting or muting citizens' access to their elected representatives.
Gov. Peter Shumlin
[Saturday's] shooting of Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords and the deaths of at least five others is a senseless tragedy.
Such hatred and violence has no place in our society. My thoughts are with Rep. Giffords' family and the families of the other victims, which include members of her staff.