Scalise back after near-fatal shooting
UNITED STATES: House Majority Whip Steve Scalise returned to the US Capitol yesterday to a standing ovation from his colleagues as he walked out on the House floor on crutches to deliver an emotional speech announcing his plans to officially return to work.
‘‘You have no idea how great this feels to be back here at work in the people’s house,’’ the Louisiana Republican said.
Scalise said the 31⁄2 months since he was critically injured during a shooting at a GOP Congressional Baseball Game practice in Alexandria, Virginia had been challenging times for his family, but he had been comforted by the ‘‘outpouring of love, of warmth, of prayer’’.
He also credited Capitol Police for saving his life, and specifically thanked officers Crystal Breiner and David Bailey. Bailey was in the chamber for Scalise’s return, and the House provided him with a standing ovation.
Members hugged Scalise or patted him on the arm or back as he walked to a podium on the GOP side of the chamber.
Scalise also thanked his wife Jennifer and blew a kiss to her in the gallery, where she was watching. He also thanked his doctors, some of whom appeared to be in the gallery as well.
Scalise was one of five people shot when a gunman opened fire at the practice on June 14, but the only member of Congress who was hit. His Capitol Police detail, two officers who were among the wounded, has been credited with saving the lives of many of those present.