Former Arizona Representative Gabby Giffords and her husband, retired astronaut Mark Kelly, spoke at the Democratic National Convention on Wednesday night. The couple spoke during a segment highlighting victims of gun violence, as Giffords herself survived an assassination attempt.
Kelly introduced Giffords, telling the audience that Clinton will do more for gun control and focus on what’s best for the country, “not what’s politically expedient.” After his speech, Giffords came out to a standing ovation, energizing the crowd.
“When I was in Congress, I learned that strong women get things done,” she said in her short speech. “Hillary is tough. Hillary is courageous. She will fight to make our family safer. In the White House, she will stand against the gun lobby. That’s why I’m voting for Hillary.”
Giffords has been on the campaign trail for Clinton and announced her endorsement for the former Secretary of State in January. In an essay posted that month, she wrote that she will fight to make sure Washington will go against the will of the gun lobby.
“Today, during our second chance at service, Mark and I continue to fight for what we’ve always fought for: independence, freedom, and common sense,” Giffords wrote. “That’s why we’re fighting for a Congress and White House that stand up to the corporate gun lobby’s intimidation and bullying. And that’s why, today, we are endorsing Hillary Clinton for president.”
Jared Laughner was convicted of trying to assassinate Giffords and received seven life sentences.
