Local leaders address Giffords shooting

Hinojosa, Farenthold and Oliveira examine heated political rhetoric

By FRANCISCO E. JIMENEZ
Staff Writer
reporter@sbnewspaper.com

Giffords file photo

Federal and state officials whose districts cover the Cameron County area addressed the shooting of U.S. Representative Gabrielle Giffords as well as the notion of whether or not heated political rhetoric levied against today's leaders played a role. (File photo)

The assassination attempt on U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords in Tucson, Arizona Saturday has left federal and state officials whose districts cover the Cameron County area on “heightened alert,” not to mention contemplating the recent notion that hostile rhetoric levied at today’s leaders incites violence.

When word spread of the shooting, which left six people dead and many others – including the congresswoman – injured, local leaders were quick to comment and offer condolences to the affected families; meanwhile, some pundits were even quicker to question whether or not the political rhetoric that has increasingly become heated in the past two years was, in hindsight, irresponsible.

Still, federal and state officials who represent much of the Valley took the opportunity to first comment on the severity of the crime.

“The news sent shock waves throughout congressional members and staff. I think we are all going to be on a heightened alert and more cautious of our surroundings,” said U.S. Rep. Rubén Hinojosa, district 15.

For more on this story, pick up a copy of the Jan. 12 edition of the San Benito News. Or view our E-Edition by clicking here.

Permanent link to this article: https://www.sbnewspaper.com/2011/01/12/local-leaders-address-giffords-shooting/

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