World's 100 most influential include Giffords, says Time

U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords has been named one of the 100 most influential people in the world by Time magazine.

President Obama wrote her profile, noting Giffords and the other Jan. 8 shooting victims had merely shown up at a northwest-side parking lot "to do the daily work of democracy."

"Before that morning, Gabrielle Giffords may not have been a household name," he wrote. "But the reason she has long been admired by people of all political stripes is that she embodies the best of what public service should be: hard work and fair play, hope and resilience, a willingness to listen and a determination to do your best in a busy world."

Obama said her husband, astronaut Mark Kelly, will be a strength for Giffords as she recovers. "And she's got the prayers of a nation rooting for her, a model of civility and courage and unity - a needed voice that cannot return soon enough."

Giffords' staffers posted their appreciation on Twitter.

"Our office is very honored that the congresswoman is on such a distinguished list," said spokesman Mark Kimble. "We also very much appreciate the gracious words of the president."

Giffords is joined on the list by a record 33 other women, including Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton and U.S. Rep. Michelle Bachman, and political figures such as the president, Vice President Joe Biden, House Speaker John Boehner and U.S. Rep. Paul Ryan.

Among some of the other influential figures named in the magazine: Prince William and Kate Middleton, singer Justin Bieber, media personality Oprah Winfrey and actor Colin Firth.

Pima County Democratic Chairman Jeff Rogers said it was unfortunate it took a tragedy for Giffords to be recognized.

"She is such a strong moderate who appealed to so many people and who took her district so seriously. I'm waiting with bated breath to see her back in the race again," he said. The issue will be on newsstands today.

Contact reporter Rhonda Bodfield at 573-4243 or rbodfield@azstarnet.com