Attack on U.S. representative worries local politicians


The shooting of an Arizona Congresswoman has left an impression on people across the nation — even in Mount Pleasant.

U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, a three-term Democrat, was injured in her home district in Tucson, Ariz. during a campaign event outside a grocery store when a 22-year-old man fired indiscriminately into a crowd. Six others were killed in the events.

State Rep. Kevin Cotter, R-Mount Pleasant, said his thoughts and prayers are with Giffords’ and other victims’ families.

“This is tragic and unacceptable,” Cotter said. “I don’t know what the shooter’s motives were. I don’t know if we’ll ever know what the shooter’s motives were. I don’t know if they were politically motivated or what.”

Michelle Shamaly, vice president of CMU College Democrats, said she looks forward to Giffords’ recovery.

“It’s tragic when that violence is used,” the Clinton Township junior said. “Violence is not an appropriate way to express a political opinion in democracy.”

Former U.S. Rep. Pete Hoekstra, R-Holland, told the Grand Rapids Press members often do not have security when they are in their home districts.

Cotter said he traveled with U.S. Rep. Dave Camp, R-Midland, and observed the security of members of Congress is lower over the weekend and at home.

“Higher profile positions should look at heightened security,” Cotter said.

He said there is security at the Capitol and in the legislative offices, but cautions against jumping toward heightened security at the state level because of this one instance.

“I’m not concerned about my own security,” Cotter said. “There’s really some level of risk, and we can’t control irrational behavior. I don’t think I have a heightened level of risk because of my position. It’s impossible to guard against all violent activity, and I don’t think we need to look at security at the state level.”

According to recent reports, any lasting damage or potential for recovery is unknown from the bullet which hit Giffords in the head.

metro@cm-life.com

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