CHUCK GRASSLEY: “This is a sad and scary day for democracy and representative government. This was a senseless attack on a member of Congress making the process of representative government work, just as our founders intended. Our thoughts and prayers are with Rep. Giffords, her staff and the people who lost their lives or were wounded in this horrific attack.”

SEN. TOM HARKIN: “When public servants and innocent civilians are struck down at a public event, a shudder goes through the hearts of all Americans. This news is nothing short of a tragedy. My thoughts are with Congresswoman Giffords and all of the families affected by this terrible turn of events.”

REP. BRUCE BRALEY, FIRST DISTRICT: “While we still don’t have all the details, Carolyn and I are praying for Gabby. Our thoughts go out to her husband Mark, her family, her staff and all who know and love her. And I add my deepest condolences to the families of the other victims of this morning’s tragic, senseless shooting. I also should note that Gabby’s brother, Alex Giffords, was a placekicker for the Iowa State football team. She gave me a print of Beardshear Hall at Iowa State that I have in my office, which she got from her brother.”

REP. DAVE LOEBSACK, SECOND DISTRICT: “I was shocked and deeply saddened to hear the news of Representative Giffords, her staff members and others involved in this tragedy. I have the distinct privilege of working with Congresswoman Giffords as a member of the House Armed Services Committee. She is a great colleague and a fine public servant. It is unspeakable that such a tragedy occurred while she was meeting with her constituents, whom she serves with distinction and honor. My thoughts and prayers are with her and her family, and the families of those affected by this senseless act of violence.”

REP. LEONARD BOSWELL, THIRD DISTRICT: “Today, Congresswoman Giffords, her staff, and her constituents were subjected to a terrible act of violence while participating in one of our most basic American rights – the right to civil discourse. I am deeply saddened and distressed by the news of the Arizona shooting and my prayers go out to the families of the victims impacted by today’s tragic events. Congresswoman Giffords is a courageous leader and fierce ally for the state of Arizona and all Americans. I have served alongside her on the House Armed Services Committee and on the Blue Dog Coalition. I am praying for her recovery, as well as the recovery of every American and family affected by today’s shooting.”

REP. TOM LATHAM, FOURTH DISTRICT: “Kathy and I are keeping Congresswoman Giffords, her staff, her family and the other victims of today’s senseless tragedy in our hearts and prayers. I know Congresswoman Giffords to be a dedicated servant to her constituents and the cause of democracy in the United States. No rational person could ever think that a political disagreement in this great nation should be solved with bullets, and I’m horrified by today’s events.”

REP. STEVE KING, FIFTH DISTRICT: “My prayers continue to be for Gabrielle Giffords, her family, her staff, and all those that are in agony today. We serve together and she is outgoing, personable and widely respected. It is inconceivable that anyone could harbor a vile, vindictive or malicious attitude towards her. I will continue to pray for her swift recovery and for the recovery of all those injured in this tragedy.”