California's elected leaders and congressional delegation are reacting to the shooting of Arizona Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords.
Giffords and others were shot at a shopping area in her home district this morning, while she held a "Congress On Your Corner" public gathering.
Several Democratic heavy-hitters attended House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi's New Year's celebration for residents of her district on Saturday. Pelosi led a moment of silence at the standing-room-only reception, flanked by fellow congressional Democrats John Garamendi and Barbara Lee.
"Congresswoman Gifford is a great, patriotic American," Pelosi said. She described Gifford as part "of a new generation of leaders. Brilliant, patriotic... Congresswoman Giffords is a strong fighter."
Uniformed SFPD officers were stationed inside and outside the event at the Delaney Street Foundation. Suited federal agents stood watch inside the banquet hall. Despite the tight security, the elected leaders in attendance made it clear that they will continue to do their work, despite the potential for violence.