Dear Friend,

Today, both the U.S. House of Representatives and President Obama will hold tributes to honor the victims of the shooting in Tucson, Arizona. I hope the entire nation will find a way to show its support for those affected by this tragedy.

As you know, the January 8th massacre took the lives of six innocent people and injured many more, including Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords.  I have traveled to Tucson many times to campaign for Gabby – who is more than a colleague of mine. She is a close friend who I respect for her kind heart, love of life, intelligence and determination.

I have never been shy about my admiration for Gabby and Captain Mark Kelly, her husband.  In fact, Gabby often teases me that I am Mark’s favorite member of Congress, and she is his second favorite.  While I might have gushed a little too much, the truth is Gabby and Mark are both tremendous people who have dedicated their lives to the betterment of their country, community and family.

My deepest thoughts and prayers are with Gabby and Mark, their family, friends, and staff as well as all the other victims of this senseless violence. I know Gabby’s strength and determination will get her through this difficult and painful time.

If you too would like to share your thoughts, prayers and well wishes with Gabby and her family, you can email them at: .  You can also show your support for Gabby and the Tucson community by making a donation to Tucson's Community Food Bank and/or American Red Cross chapter – two of Gabby’s favorite local charities.

Community Food Bank
3003 S Country Club Rd # 221
Tucson, AZ 85713-4084
(520) 622-0525

American Red Cross, Southern Arizona Chapter
2916 East Broadway Boulevard
Tucson, AZ 85716
(520) 318-6740

Aside from taking immediate steps to help the community of Tucson recover, it is my hope that all members of Congress and public servants will take this opportunity to reflect on our lives, what we do, and how we can develop a more collegial atmosphere.  Since being elected in 2006, Gabby has been determined to make the political arena a place where we strive to find common ground and advance good policy proposals; not fight over political differences. I will redouble my efforts to rekindle bipartisanship so when Gabby returns, we will have helped to advance one of her highest priorities.

In the coming weeks, I will be in touch about what plans I have for the coming year. However, I wanted to share with all of you my deep sadness about the violence that took place in Arizona and encourage all of us to use this opportunity to bring about a greater good. Thank you.

Sincerely,

Congressman Joe Crowley

Congressman Joe Crowley campaigning for Congresswoman Gabby Giffords in Arizona, April 2010