The following statement was released by one of the more prominent tea party groups in response to the Saturday shooting in Arizona that killed six people, including a federal judge, and injured 12 more, including a Democratic congresswoman.

Tea Party Express Chairman Amy Kremer issued the following statement today:

“We at the Tea Party Express are shocked and saddened to hear about the terrible tragedy that took place in Tucson today. It is appalling that anyone would commit such unthinkable violence against Congresswoman Gabrielle Gifford[s], her staff, a sitting federal judge and the many other victims and families impacted.

“These heinous crimes have no place in America, and they are especially grievous when committed against our elected officials. Spirited debate is desirable in our country, but it only should be the clash of ideas. An attack on anyone for political purposes, if that was a factor in this shooting, is an attack on the democratic process. We join with everyone in vociferously condemning it.

“Our thoughts and prayers will be with all those affected today as the details unfold.”