Gabby Giffords statement on shooting of Minnesota lawmakers

WASHINGTON — GIFFORDS, the national gun violence prevention organization led by former Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords, released the following statement after reports that Minnesota State Representative Melissa Hortman and Minnesota State Senator John Hoffman were shot in their homes last night by “a gunman impersonating a police officer” in body armor. 

“I am horrified and heartbroken by last night’s attack on two patriotic public servants. Melissa, John and their entire families are in my prayers today as we await more information. I hope law enforcement can quickly find those responsible and bring them to justice,” said former Congresswoman Gabby Giffords. “My family and I know the horror of a targeted shooting all too well. An attack against lawmakers is an attack on American democracy itself. Leaders must speak out and condemn the fomenting violent extremism that threatens everything this country stands for.”