Rep. Takano Issues Statement on Second Anniversary of Tucson Shooting
Washington DC – Rep. Mark Takano (D-CA) issued the following statement on the second anniversary of the 2011 Tucson Shooting, which killed six and injured fourteen, including Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords:
“We all remember where we were when we heard the tragic news of the events that took place on January 8, 2011 in Tucson, Arizona. That day, six Americans were taken from their families, and fourteen others were injured in a senseless act of violence during an event held by Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords. Two years later, let us pause and reflect on those lost and continue to offer our thoughts and prayers to their families.
“While I never had the opportunity to serve with Congresswoman Giffords, her miraculous recovery and passion for public service has nonetheless inspired me, and many others.
“Since the events in Tucson, our nation has unfortunately seen additional tragedies in Aurora, Oak Creek and Newtown. While I realize that there is no single solution for preventing mass shootings, I refuse to believe that our current system is the best we can do.
“President Obama has promised to present gun violence legislation this month and I encourage the President to take an ‘all of the above’ approach - dealing with military style assault weapons, mental health funding, extended clips, and the closing of loopholes.
“Our country is undoubtedly at its best when we come together to solve the challenges before us. Let us honor the memories of those fallen in Tucson, Aurora, Oak Creek, and Newtown by committing ourselves to finding ways to prevent similar tragedies from ever happening again.”