WASHINGTON — US President Barack Obama yesterday cut short his two-day campaign swing after a deadly shooting in Aurora, Colorado, saying there can be “other days for politics. “Obama appeared at a campaign stop in Fort Myers, Florida, saying the federal government stands ready to do whatever is necessary to bring whoever responsible for the shooting.
He didn’t give his usual campaign speech, devoting the whole of his short remarks to the shooting, and made reflections in light of the shooting.
Obama said he made phone calls to Colorado Governor John Hickenlooper, and offered condolences and help of the federal government.
In an earlier White House statement, Obama said his administration will do everything it can to support the people of Aurora, and is committed to “bringing whoever was responsible to justice, ensuring the safety of our people, and caring for those who have been wounded.
“Campaign officials said Obama is cutting short his campaign trip to return to Washington.
The second event of the day is canceled. Obama is on the second day of the trip.
Presumed Republican presidential nominee Mitt Romney also put out a statement on the shooting, saying he and wife Ann expect the person responsible for the crime be quickly brought to justice.
A masked gunman released tear gas and opened fire into a crowded movie theater in Aurora, a suburb of Denver, early Friday, killing 12 people and injuring at least 50 others. A suspect has been apprehended. — Xinhua.