The nation reacts to the resignation of Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords:

President Barack Obama:

Gabby Giffords embodies the very best of what public service should be. She’s universally admired for qualities that transcend party or ideology — a dedication to fairness, a willingness to listen to different ideas, and a tireless commitment to the work of perfecting our union. That’s why the people of Arizona chose Gabby — to speak and fight and stand up for them. That’s what brought her to a supermarket in Tucson last year — so she could carry their hopes and concerns to Washington. And we know it is with the best interests of her constituents in mind that Gabby has made the tough decision to step down from Congress.

Over the last year, Gabby and her husband Mark have taught us the true meaning of hope in the face of despair, determination in the face of incredible odds, and now — even after she’s come so far — Gabby shows us what it means to be selfless as well.

Gabby’s cheerful presence will be missed in Washington. But she will remain an inspiration to all whose lives she touched — myself included. And I’m confident that we haven’t seen the last of this extraordinary American.

Richard Carmona, former U.S. surgeon general, current Democratic candidate for U.S. Senate and friend of Gabby:

Gabby's courage is inspirational and her enthusiasm for public service is infectious. I've never seen a public official work harder to serve their constituents than Gabby. She and I participated in a number of health care town halls together and her strength has always been palpable. In addition to being a great and caring friend to all that know her, she is the model for the kind of leadership that we need in this country. I know in the months and years to come she will continue to fight hard to help others and for the values she believes in.

Speaker of the House John Boehner:

I salute Congresswoman Giffords for her service, and for the courage and perseverance she has shown in the face of tragedy. She will be missed.

House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi:

Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords has been a true bright star - a dynamic and creative public servant. Gabby's message of bipartisanship and civility is one that all in Washington and the nation should honor and emulate.

Since the tragic events one year ago, Gabby has been an inspiring symbol of determination and courage to millions of Americans.

I join all my colleagues in Congress in thanking Gabby for the honor of calling her colleague and wishing Gabby and Mark great success and happiness. She will be missed in the House of Representatives, but her legacy in the Congress and her leadership for our nation will certainly continue.

DCCC Chairman Steve Israel:

The entire nation has felt like one of Gabrielle Giffords’ constituents. She will be deeply missed by her friends and colleagues in Congress.

Today, Gabrielle is proving once again that she is a true public servant — putting the needs of her constituents ahead of her own. Her commitment to her constituents leaves a legacy that humbles us. We all thank her and honor her service and we thank her staff for their steadfast courage and unyielding devotion in the face of the unimaginable.

We look forward to working with a Democratic candidate who fits this district and shares those values that Gabrielle holds dear to carry on her work.