“Fifteen years ago today, Arizona suffered a profound tragedy. Six lives were taken, and Congresswoman Gabby Giffords and twelve others were injured in a senseless act of violence.
Today, we pause to honor the memory of those we lost and the resilience of those who survived. For our board member Daniel Hernandez, this day is personal. As an intern who helped save the life of Congresswoman Giffords, Daniel witnessed firsthand the devastating cost of political violence.
Daniel’s presence on this board, alongside Republican leaders Jan Brewer, Matt Salmon, and Jonathan Lines, is a testament to the Democracy Defense Project’s core mission. We come from different parties and different backgrounds, but we are united by a singular truth: there is no place for violence, lies, or polarizing rhetoric in our democracy.
As we look back on the healing that has taken place over the last 15 years, let us pledge to lower the temperature of our political discourse. We must view our neighbors not as enemies, but as fellow citizens. We owe it to the victims of the 2011 Tucson shooting to build a future where our differences are debated with civility and our democracy is defended by all.”
Published: Jan 8, 2026
