Congresswoman Shocked by D.C. Shooting of Colleague

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Congresswoman Aumua Amata is shocked with the shooting of one of her colleagues at the GOP Congressional Baseball practice in Alexandria, VA earlier today.

The congresswoman said, “When I got off the plane in Washington this morning after two consecutive overnight flights to the nation’s capital from Pago Pago, I was shocked to learn that my colleague Steve Scalise and several others had survived a murder attempt while they were at baseball practice for our annual game for charity set for Thursday night.

The shooting was particularly unnerving for the congresswoman, as it took place at a neighborhood baseball field within walking distance from her house in suburban Alexandria.

Aumua said, “Needless to say I am offering prayers for a full recovery to Steve and the others who were caught up in this senseless act of violence.

“Steve is not just a colleague and member of House Leadership. He is a kind man and my friend.”

The congresswoman recalls that when her first bill passed the House in 2015, Scalise thoughtfully surprised her and her staff by sending over a box of cupcakes as a congratulatory present for her first legislative achievement.

She said her colleague also hosts an informal buffet dinner in the Capitol the night before the session resumes whenever Congress is returning to Washington.

Just recently, Scalise personally invited her to his district in Louisiana for an energy conference.

Unfortunately, she had Samoan community obligations at that same time.

The congresswoman called for unity and prayers at this time.

“It doesn’t matter what side of the aisle you sit on; every one of us – members, congressional staff, capitol police, and our families – all serve because we want what is best for our nation,” she said.

“Let us all come together in the wake of this tragic event so that we may build a stronger union with peace and prosperity for everyone.”

Aumua also acknowledged the “heroic efforts of everyone in Alexandria this morning, especially the Capitol Police and the officers from the city of Alexandria for their quick response without which today’s tragedy could have been much worse. ”

She concluded, “As we move forward to do the work of the people, it is my hope that this tragic event will only serve to strengthen the bond we have as Americans and bring Congress closer together for the betterment of us all.”

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