(Image Source: YouTube)
BY LAUREN ZIMA
A big announcement from Arizona Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords who was shot in an assassination attempt in Tucson a little more than a year ago. Here’s part of a video Giffords shared on YouTube this weekend.
“I have more work to do on my recovery so to do what is best for Arizona I will step down this week. ... I will return and we will work together for Arizona and this great country.”
Giffords also says she’s getting better -- and her spirits are high. CNN reports Giffords arrived at the difficult decision after visiting Tucson a few weeks ago for the one-year anniversary of the shooting -- she says the trip made her realize she needs to focus on recovery. The network also has the political take.
“Look, politically, Republicans would love the chance to pick up a seat in the house, as they may do here. But nobody -- as partisan as things get on capital hill - nobody wanted to see Giffords leave Congress this way.”
And WSVN reports on what exactly will happen to that seat -- and Giffords.
“Giffords will submit her letters of resignation to House Speaker John Boehner and Arizona Governor Jan Brewer, but she said she will attend the State of the Union address on Tuesday before she leaves Congress. A special election will be held to fill her seat through the end of her term this year.”
And Fox News reminds us of Giffords’ inspirational impact.
“The attack on Giffords led to calls for more civility in Congress, including from President Obama who attended a memorial service in Tucson for the fallen. … House Democratic leader Nancy Pelosi issued a statement saying that Giffords ‘has been a true bright star.’”
