Statement on Rep. Gabby Giffords resigning from Congress

WASHINGTON– Earlier today, Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-20) read Rep. Gabby Giffords’ (AZ-8) resignation letter on the House floor. She also released the following statement:

“Rep. Gabrielle Giffords is an incredible public servant, woman, and friend.  No one can really understand what she and her family have been through over the past year.  The remarkable progress of her recovery, combined with her indelible zest for life, has lifted the spirits of millions of Americans.

“Gabby knows that she has more work to do on her recovery, and so, being the selfless person that she is, she has decided that it is the best thing for the people of southern Arizona if she steps down.  I am confident that Gabby will return to public service for the people of Arizona and the nation after focusing on her recovery. Gabby never does anything halfway and her service in Congress as well as her recovery is no exception. I am so proud of my friend for her commitment to her constituents, for her work ethic and her perseverance.

“Gabby has had such a positive impact on our nation.  She reminds us that ‘we can do so much more by working together.’  We will miss Gabby’s spirit in Congress and I will miss working with my friend, but I am confident that she will return to public service and we can all work together for America.”