Mike Pence, other lawmakers donate to Capitol Hill blood bank in honor of Scalise

June 21, 2017 National News
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Twitter/VP(WASHINGTON) — Vice President Mike Pence was among those on Capitol Hill Tuesday who rolled up their sleeves and donated blood in honor of the victims of last week’s shooting at congressional baseball practice at an Alexandria, Virginia, park.

The blood drive — which will also take place on Thursday — is supported by the American Red Cross and hosted by Deputy Whip Rep. Patrick McHenry, R-N.C. It’s in honor of Rep. Steve Scalise, R-La., who has been upgraded from critical to serious condition, as well as Capitol Police officer Crystal Griner and lobbyist Matt Mika, all of whom were injured when gunman James Hodgkinson opened fire. He was killed in a shootout with police.

“Inspiring to see members of Congress & staffers at the blood drive organized to help those hurt in last week’s shooting. #TeamScalise,” Pence tweeted, along with photos of himself at the blood bank.

Marc Lotter, Pence’s press secretary, tweeted a photo of the vice president “donating blood & getting update on @SteveScalise.”

Pence’s donation to the blood bank was welcomed by Scalise’s staff, who tweeted from the congressman’s account, “Thanks to @VP Pence for giving blood today in honor of those injured in last week’s attack. #TeamScalise”

Rep. McHenry also commended Pence, tweeting, “Great to see @VP Pence taking part in today’s blood drive honoring the victims of last week’s attack. #ScaliseStrong @CapitolPolice.”

Rep. Pete Aguilar, R-Calif., also donated blood, tweeting a photo of himself at the blood bank.

“Thank you @PatrickMcHenry for organizing a blood drive in honor of @stevescalise and all the victims of last week’s horrific attack,” he wrote.

Sen. Jeff Flake (R-Ariz.) also tweeted a photo of himself, while blood was being drawn.

“Happy to give blood today in honor of @SteveScalise and others injured on the ball field last week,” he wrote.

Rep. Darrell Issa (R-Calif.) tweeted a series of photos, as well.

Rep. Jason Lewis (R-Minn.) tweeted a photo of himself giving the thumbs-up, while his blood was being drawn.

“Joined @InovaBlood to give blood today in support of my friend @SteveScalise’s recovery! Praying for Steve & our brave Capitol Police #Mn02,” he wrote.

Georgia congressman Drew Ferguson also tweeted a photo of himself donating blood.

“Proud to be supporting #TeamScalise today at the Capitol Hill blood drive,” he wrote.

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