President Obama Talks Tucson Tragedy, 'American Family' in Opening SOTU Remarks

President Barack Obama has begun his State of the Union address in the joint session of Congress, recognizing Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, the congresswoman who is still recuperating after being shot in Tucson, Ariz.,earlier this month.

Obama said the tragedy reminds us that we are members of the "American family."

"And as we mark this occasion, we are also mindful of the empty chair in this chamber, and pray for the health of our colleague -- and our friend -- Gabby Giffords.

"It's no secret that those of us here tonight have had our differences over the last two years. The debates have been contentious; we have fought fiercely for our beliefs. And that's a good thing. That's what a robust democracy demands. That's what helps set us apart as a nation.

"But there's a reason the tragedy in Tucson gave us pause. Amid all the noise and passions and rancor of our public debate, Tucson reminded us that no matter who we are or where we come from, each of us is a part of something greater -- something more consequential than party or political preference.

"We are part of the American family. We believe that in a country where every race and faith and point of view can be found, we are still bound together as one people; that we share common hopes and a common creed; that the dreams of a little girl in Tucson are not so different than those of our own children, and that they all deserve the chance to be fulfilled," Obama said.

Breaking a tradition that goes back to the early 20th century, members of opposite parties are sitting next to each other as a symbol of bipartisanship in the wake of the Tucson shooting.