Gabby Giffords Quits Congress

Rep. Gabrielle Giffords has quit Congress.  One year after surviving a Tucson assassination attempt, Gabby Giffords gave up her congressional seat this week.

Giffords' letter of resignation landed on the desks of House Speaker John Boehner and Arizona Governor Jan Brewer, who are setting the date for a special election to determine who will serve the remainder of Gabby Giffords' term in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords, 41, held back emotion as she addressed her constituents with, "I will never forget the trust you placed in me to be your voice."

"I have more work to do on my recovery, so to do what is best for Arizona, I will step down this week," Giffords added.

Many Americans, including representatives of the House, are disappointed to see Giffords leave Congress but are also understanding of her need to heal and recover.

The Arizona congresswoman's resignation mandates a special election later this year to fill her seat, and many potential candidates have expressed an interest.

It is rumored that Giffords' husband, Mark Kelly, could declare his candidacy and utilize the $800,000 in campaign funds contributed since his wife's shooting last year.