House Resolution Would Condemn Giffords Attack (Full Text)
The House of Representatives on Wednesday will vote on a resolution declaring that the House "condemns in the strongest possible terms the horrific attack" in Tucson, Arizona that left six dead, a congresswoman in critical condition and 13 others injured.
Saturday's shooting, in which 22-year-old alleged gunman Jared Loughner open fired at a "Congress on your Corner" event hosted by Rep. Gabrielle Giffords (D-Ariz.), prompted the House to call off its regular business for the week.
Instead of taking up the partisan issue of health care repeal legislation, the House opted this week to vote on this resolution, which states the House "stands firm in its belief in a democracy in which all can participate and in which intimidation and threats of violence cannot silence the voices of any American."
The resolution, the full text of which is below, also offers condolences to the victims of the attack, applauds the bravery of those individuals who tried to stop the shooter and recognizes the service of first responders.
The House will take up the resolution on Wednesday, and members are expected to take up most of the day speaking on the tragedy. There will also be a bipartisan prayer service for House members on Wednesday, as well as a security briefing with Capitol Police and the House Sergeant at Arms.
