Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Aumua Amata, issued the following statement regarding the shooting at the GOP congressional baseball practice in Alexandria, VA on Wednesday.

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

 “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,” continued American Samoa’s member of the House.

 “Steve is not just a colleague and member of House Leadership. He is a kind man and my friend,” said Amata. “When my first bill passed the house in 2015, Steve thoughtfully surprised my staff and me by sending over a box of cupcakes to congratulate me on my very first legislative achievement. Steve also hosts an informal buffet dinner in the Capitol the night before the session resumes whenever Congress is returning to Washington. Just recently, he personally invited me to his district in Louisiana for an energy conference. Unfortunately, I had Samoan community obligations at that same 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,” continued Amata. “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.” 

 “I want to acknowledge the heroic efforts of everyone in Alexandria this morning, especially our Capitol Police and the officers from the city of Alexandria for their quick response without which today’s tragedy could have been much worse. 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,” concluded Amata.