HARRISBURG - Republican Party of Pennsylvania Chairman Rob Gleason released the following statement regarding last weekend’s tragic shooting in Arizona:

“Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers go out to the victims and their families of this awful tragedy,” Gleason said.  “This is not the time for politics, but instead a time to pause and remember the lives that were lost and pray for those are still battling for their lives.

“Our public officials must have the freedom to meet and participate in open forums with their constituents without having to fear for their safety or the safety of those attending.  The attack on Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords’ event is tragic and one that I pray is never repeated.

“We join the nation in mourning for those individuals who lost their lives and their families and loved ones and pray for Congresswoman Giffords and her family during this difficult time.”

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