Giffords resigns from Congress
Gabrielle Giffords
Wed, January 25, 2012 - 9:30 AM
(CNN) -- Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, who moved the nation with an improbable comeback after a gunman shot her in the head last year, formally resigned today in an emotional appearance in the U.S. House of Representatives.
"I will recover and will return," the Arizona Democrat said in a letter read aloud by her friend and colleague, Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz, who fought back tears.
A standing ovation roared across the House chamber for Giffords. Teary-eyed legislators from both parties applauded Giffords as she submitted her letter of resignation to House Speaker John Boehner, who also fought back tears.
House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi called Giffords the "brightest star among us."
"She has brought the word 'dignity' to new heights by her courage," Pelosi said. "You will be missed in the House of Representatives."
Her husband, Mark Kelly, a former astronaut, and mother, Gloria, watched.
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Rep. Giffords (D-Ariz.) declared Sunday that she will quit her seat in Congress this week. Her last formal act Monday will be to finish that aborted meeting. Giffords also said she has some business before stepping down. Source for this article: Gabby Giffords resigns Congressional seat.
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