In quotes: Reaction to Arizona shooting

US politicians have been responding to the shooting of Arizona Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords, who was attacked while meeting constituents in Tucson. Members of her staff were among up to 18 people who were also shot.

US PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA

Gabby Giffords was a friend of mine. She is not only an extraordinary public servant, but she is also somebody who is warm and caring.

It's not surprising that today Gabby was doing what she always does - listening to the hopes and concerns of her neighbours. That is the essence of what our democracy is all about. That is why this is more than a tragedy for those involved. It is a tragedy for Arizona and a tragedy for our entire country.

What Americans do at times of tragedy is to come together and support each other. So at this time I ask all Americans to join me and Michelle in keeping all the victims and their families, including Gabby, in our thoughts and prayers.

JOHN BOEHNER, HOUSE SPEAKER

I am horrified by the senseless attack on Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords and members of her staff. An attack on one who serves is an attack on all who serve. Acts and threats of violence against public officials have no place in our society.

Our prayers are with Congresswoman Giffords, her staff, all who were injured, and their families. This is a sad day for our country.

SARAH PALIN, FORMER ALASKA GOVERNOR

My sincere condolences are offered to the family of Rep Gabrielle Giffords and the other victims of today's tragic shooting in Arizona.

On behalf of Todd and my family, we all pray for the victims and their families, and for peace and justice.

NANCY PELOSI, FORMER HOUSE SPEAKER

This terrible act of violence is a national tragedy, and today is a very sad day for our country.

Congresswoman Giffords is a brilliant and courageous member of Congress, bringing to Washington the views of a new generation of national leaders. It is especially tragic that she was attacked as she was meeting with her constituents whom she serves with such dedication and distinction.

ERIC CANTOR, HOUSE MAJORITY LEADER

I was deeply horrified to learn today of the shooting of Representative Gabrielle Giffords and others in Tucson. Our thoughts and prayers are with Congresswoman Giffords and her family, her staff, and the residents of Tucson on this sad day.

As this serious situation continues to develop, I remain in close communication with Democratic leaders, the Speaker's office and the Sergeant at Arms. We will remain in constant communication regarding any schedule changes.

MITCH MCCONNELL, SENATE MINORITY LEADER

This senseless attack today in Tucson is a national tragedy, and all America mourns those who lost their lives in the very act of public service.

I join the entire Congress in condemning this horrifying act of violence, and on behalf of the entire Senate family, Elaine and I extend our deepest expressions of sympathy and heartfelt prayers to Rep Giffords and the families of those who have been killed or injured.

JOHN MCCAIN, ARIZONA SENATOR

I am horrified by the violent attack on Representative Gabrielle Giffords and many other innocent people by a wicked person who has no sense of justice or compassion. I pray for Gabby and the other victims, and for the repose of the souls of the dead and comfort for their families. I beg our loving Creator to spare the lives of those who are still alive, heal them in body and spirit, and return them to their loved ones.

Whoever did this, whatever their reason, they are a disgrace to Arizona, this country and the human race, and they deserve and will receive the contempt of all decent people and the strongest punishment of the law.

ERIC HOLDER, US ATTORNEY GENERAL

Today's tragedy in Arizona was a senseless act of violence that has already resulted in devastating loss, including the death of Chief United States District Court Judge John Roll and four other individuals and the wounding of Representative Gabrielle Giffords and a number of others....

FBI Director Mueller is traveling to Arizona to help coordinate the investigation. The FBI is working jointly with local law enforcement to investigate today's events, and I have directed Department prosecutors and law enforcement officials to use every resource necessary to investigate this tragedy. I want to assure the people of Arizona and every American that we will hold accountable anyone responsible for these heinous acts.

JAN BREWER, ARIZONA GOVERNOR

I am just heartbroken. Gabby is more than just a colleague, she's actually a friend. She's always been a noble public servant.

AMY KREMER, CHAIRMAN OF TEA PARTY EXPRESS GROUP

These heinous crimes have no place in America and they are especially grievous when committed against our elected officials. Spirited debate is desirable in our country but it only should be the clash of ideas.

An attack on anyone for political purposes, if that was a factor in this shooting, is an attack on the democratic process. We join with everyone in vociferously condemning it.

DAVID CAMERON, UK PRIME MINISTER

Like everyone in Britain, I was shocked and saddened by the shootings which took place yesterday in Tucson, Arizona. Our hearts go out to all of those who have been caught up in this terrible incident.

That such an attack should have taken place against a member of Congress as she was meeting her constituents in a shopping centre on a Saturday morning is especially shocking to all of us who believe in democracy.

I am keeping Representative Giffords in my thoughts and prayers as she battles for life, together with all of those who have been wounded.