Moment of the Day: Wasserman Schultz Reads Giffords' Resignation Letter, Boehner Bids Her a Tearful Farewell
In the conclusion to an emotional ceremony in the House of Representatives Wednesday morning, a close friend and colleague of Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL), took to the podium to read the text of Giffords' letter of resignation submitted to Congress this past weekend. Wasserman Schultz couldn't hold back tears as she read the letter, which thanked friends, colleagues and constituents for their prayers and loyalty.
"Thank you for your faith in my ability to be your voice," it read. "Even as we are set back by tragedy or profound disagreement, in the end we come together as Americans to set a course
towards greatness. Every day I am working hard. I will recover and I will return, and we will work together again for Arizona and for all Americans."
Giffords was then escorted by Wasserman Schultz up to the podium of House Speaker John Boehner, who embraced the congresswoman as he accepted her resignation letter. Boehner then tearfully held Giffords' hand and raised it to Congress, who, with husband Mark Kelly and her mother in attendance, were all on their feet in a standing ovation.
MORE VIDEOS:
• Rep. Gabby Giffords Says Goodbye, Receives Emotional Reception From Congress
• Eric Cantor: I Know This Won’t Be the Last We See of Gabby Giffords
• President Obama and Gabrielle Giffords Embrace Ahead of State of the Union Address
• Giffords to Finish “Meet and Greet” Event Begun on Day of Shooting
