(WASHINGTON) – U.S. Reps. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL) and Howard L. Berman (D-CA), the Chairman and Ranking Member, respectively, of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, issued the following statement regarding the attack earlier today on Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords and other individuals Arizona:

“We are deeply saddened by the tragic attack on Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords, members of her staff, and constituents in Arizona. We have had the privilege to get to know Congresswoman Giffords as our respected colleague in Congress and on our Committee. She has always demonstrated a strong commitment to serving her constituents, the men and women of our armed forces, and our nation. She has brought grace, class, integrity, and civility to Congress. Our heartfelt prayers are with Congresswoman Giffords, her staff, the other victims of this tragedy, and all of the families and loved ones affected by this heinous event.”