President Praises Giffords on New Legislation

President Obama and Gabby Giffords at the 2012 State of the Union

Statement by President Obama Upon Signing the Ultralight Aircraft Smuggling Prevention Act of 2012

This bill gives our nation’s law enforcement expanded authority to combat illicit drug trafficking on our Northern and Southern Borders and being able to sign it next to my friend Gabby Giffords gives me enormous pride.  She has spent her career fighting for the safety of the people of Arizona and the fact that it passed unanimously shows just how much Gabby is respected by her colleagues in Congress in both parties. Her dedication to fairness and to this country has been an inspiration to so many, including myself. I wished Gabby well in her recovery and told her that I expect to see more of her in the months and years to come. I’m confident that while this legislation may have been her last act as a Congresswoman, it will not be her last act of public service.

Photo source:

http://www.whitehouse.gov/sites/default/files/imagecache/gallery_img_full/image/image_file/p012412ps-0426.jpg

Author:  Pete Souza, official White House photographer

Permission: Public Domain

Obama and Biden Comment on Giffords' Resignation

Statement from President Obama

Gabby Giffords embodies the very best of what public service should be.  She’s universally admired for qualities that transcend party or ideology – a dedication to fairness, a willingness to listen to different ideas, and a tireless commitment to the work of perfecting our union.  That’s why the people of Arizona chose Gabby – to speak and fight and stand up for them.  That’s what brought her to a supermarket in Tucson last year – so she could carry their hopes and concerns to Washington. And we know it is with the best interests of her constituents in mind that Gabby has made the tough decision to step down from Congress.

Over the last year, Gabby and her husband Mark have taught us the true meaning of hope in the face of despair, determination in the face of incredible odds, and now – even after she’s come so far – Gabby shows us what it means to be selfless as well.

Statement from Vice President Biden

I spoke with Gabby’s husband Mark yesterday and told him that the most important thing is Gabby's recovery. We fully support their decision. I know that Gabby will continue to make significant contributions to her state and country, and I stand with her in whatever endeavor she decides to pursue. Jill and I wish Gabby and Mark all the best as they embark on the next phase of recovery.

Photo source: The White House

Permission: Public Domain