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Sen. Murphy On DC Shooting: 'We Are All Pulling For You'

Connecticut's delegation to Washington was quick to react and express shock and support after a congressman from Louisiana and others were shot at baseball practice Wednesday morning outside Washington, D.C.  

U.S. Sen. Chris Murphy

U.S. Sen. Chris Murphy

Photo Credit: File

"Oh my god," U.S. Sen. Chris Murphy said via Twitter just minutes after news of the shooting broke about the shooting, which occurred just after 7 a.m.

"We are all pulling for you @SteveScalise. My heart is with you, the Capitol Police, and everyone who was on the scene," Murphy Tweeted a bit later.

Murphy released a longer statement later in the day.

“My heart sank when I heard what happened this morning in Alexandria. ... I’m so grateful for Capitol Police’s quick response,” said Murphy. 

“The congressional baseball game, where Republicans and Democrats get together to raise hundreds of thousands of dollars for charity, is a wonderful event. I look forward to being part of the game every year. For this unhinged individual to have targeted an event that is all about fellowship and camaraderie makes it all the more tragic.”

House Majority Whip Steve Scalise and four other people, including the shooter, were shot Wednesday in Alexandria, Va., according to multiple media reports. 

Two Capitol Police officers were also reported injured, as was an aide to U.S. Rep. Roger Williams, R-Texas, the congressman’s office said.

Scalise was in surgery and in stable condition at MedStar Washington Hospital Center, his office said in a statement. "The whip was in good spirits and spoke to his wife by phone. He is grateful for the brave actions of U.S. Capitol Police, first responders, and colleagues."

U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal released the following statement in response to the shooting at a practice for the Congressional Baseball Game that had been scheduled for Thursday. 

“My heart goes out to Congressman Scalise, his staff, and the security officials involved in this horrific shooting. I am especially grateful this morning for the swift action of the Capitol Police, who unhesitatingly disregarded danger to themselves in protecting others. I am hopeful we can put aside politics and support all affected.”

U.S. Rep. Elizabeth Esty‏ (D-5th District) assured constituents that her staff members were all safe. 

"We are praying for our GOP friends & colleagues and awaiting updates," Esty said. "Praying for @SteveScalise, my @HouseGOP & @SenateGOP colleagues, & the Capitol Police who work everyday to keep people safe."

U.S. Rep. Jim Himes‏ (D-4th District), said, "Horrified by the attack on the Congressional family in VA this morning. Praying for those injured and grateful for those who keep us safe."

U.S. Rep. Rosa DeLauro‏ (D-3rd District) also expressed her concern. 

"Keeping everyone at this morning's Congressional baseball practice and their families in my prayers," she said.

My heart goes out to Congressman Scalise, his staff, and the security officials involved in this horrific shooting in Alexandria.

On the local level, Danbury Mayor Mark Boughton‏ said via Twitter, "Praying for those shot this morning in Washington DC. @SteveScalise. #horrible."

The Congressional Baseball Game is a bipartisan tradition that benefits charities in D.C. area.

The game, which had been set for Thursday, dates to 1909. In the game, members of Congress sport the uniforms of their favorite teams as the two parties face off.

Murphy is the only Connecticut member of Congress on the 2017 Congressional baseball team.

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