Giffords’ Endorsements Reflect Broad, Bipartisan Support
TUCSON - A remarkably large and broad coalition has united around 8th District Congressional candidate Gabrielle Giffords and her message of bringing change to Washington.
Her coalition includes law enforcement, teachers, nurses, businesspeople, and unions.
In addition, Giffords won the endorsement of eight newspapers that serve Southern Arizona.
The Arizona Republic stated that supporting Giffords is, “an easy call… She is intelligent, articulate, has a track record as an effective lawmaker and a keen understanding of the needs and challenges of a southern Arizona district that shares a border with Mexico. What’s more, her experience running her family’s small business gives her insights into the issues that face residents of an urban district. A Democrat, Giffords shows a willingness to work with those on both sides of the aisle and has done so effectively.”
The Tucson Citizen said that Giffords offers, “experience, wisdom, and trust… Gabrielle Giffords is the only candidate who can bring an exemplary record, rich experience, moderation and common sense to Congressional District 8. Having enjoyed all those characteristics during 22 years with U.S. Rep. Jim Kolbe, the district deserves nothing less… She has a proven ability to negotiate and cooperate, as well as a reputation for being congenial but tough.”
The Arizona Daily Star asserted that, “Giffords has solid record of building bridges… Giffords has the conviction, leadership qualities and commitment to public service necessary to advocate for the district’s interest in Congress.”
The Arizona Range News and San Pedro Valley News-Sun stated that Giffords is “moderate by any reasonable definition… Jim Kolbe was a good congressman for more than 20 years. We need someone to replace him who will represent all of the District 8 constituents. We need someone who is fair-minded and measured in response to challenges. It isn’t about Democrat or Republican. It’s about the individual. For that reason, we endorse Gabrielle Giffords for the District 8 congressional seat.”
The Arizona Police Association lauded Giffords’ commitment to public safety.
“It is our belief that Gabrielle Giffords will bring the character and dedication necessary to improve the community and promote the ideals of effective law enforcement held by our members,” said Dale F. Norris, Executive Director of the Arizona Police Association.
Likewise, The Professional Fire Fighters of Arizona hailed Giffords as a candidate who will do more than talk about keeping our communities safe.
“At a time when a lot of people talk tough about security and safety, Gabrielle Giffords has a record of making safety a priority,” said Tim Hill, President of the Professional Fire Fighters of Arizona. “She supported legislation that was beneficial to firefighters in the State Senate and we look forward to working with her in Washington.”
The Arizona Education Association cited Giffords’ advocacy of Arizona’s public education system, calling Giffords “the only candidate who has proven her strong dedication to children and to the public schools of Arizona.”
The Business and Industry PAC, a group that endorses pro-business candidates, praised Giffords record of bipartisanship and business experience.
“Gabrielle Giffords’ pro-business credentials and track record of consensus-building in Arizona’s state legislature position her to be a key member of the business coalition in the 110th Congress,” said Greg Casey, President and CEO of the Business and Industry PAC.
