Statements on Rep. Giffords' shooting

President Barack Obama: "It's not surprising that today Gabby was doing what she always does, listening to the hopes and concerns of her neighbors. That is the essence of what our democracy is about."

Speaker John Boehner (R-OH): "I am horrified by the senseless attack on Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords and members of her staff. An attack on one who serves is an attack on all who serve. Acts and threats of violence against public officials have no place in our society. Our prayers are with Congresswoman Giffords, her staff, all who were injured, and their families. This is a sad day for our country."

Democrat Nancy Pelosi: "My prayers, and the prayers of all members of Congress, go out to her husband, Captain Mark Kelly, their family, and to all of the staff and others who were victims of this horrible attack."

Gov. Jerry Brown said he was "deeply saddened to learn of the shooting of congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords and others in Tucson this morning."

Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer said she's heartbroken by the shooting of Giffords and others in Tucson and said the whole state is saddened.

Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa: "Today is a very sad day for all those who have devoted their lives to public service, regardless of affiliation or ideology."

Rep. Judy Chu (D-CA): "My heart and prayers go out to Congresswoman Giffords, her family and all the victims of this senseless and terrible tragedy.

"No matter one's political leanings, attacks on public officials and citizens based on diferences of opinion are unconscionable and go against everything our great nation stands for."

Rep. Xavier Becerra (D-CA): "The vicious attack on Gabby and her constituents is nothing less than a despicable attack on all of us and our democracy."

Rep. Mary Bono Mack (R-CA): "Gabby has worked tirelessly to improve the civility in Congress, earning her the respect of people everywhere. Having worked with her, I know she is a strong woman with a passion for life, family, friends and our country. Let us all pray for the strength to carry Gabby through this terrible ordeal."

Tea Party Express Chair Amy Kremer: "It is appalling that anyone would commit such unthinkable violence against Congresswoman Gabrielle Gifford (sic), her staff, a sitting federal judge and the many other victims and families impacted.

"These heinous crimes have no place in America, and they are especially grievous when committed against our elected officials. Spirited debate is desirable in our country, but it only should be the clash of ideas."

Rep. Dana Rohrabacher (R-Huntington Beach): "She and I worked closely together on the Science Committee and she is a member of whom I have the utmost respect. This dastardly crime by a lone individual has no place in our free and open society."