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'Let's play ball': Democrats and Republicans put aside differences at charity baseball game after Virginia shooting

Members of congress pray ahead of their baseball game - Getty Images North America
Members of congress pray ahead of their baseball game - Getty Images North America

Party differences were set aside as members of Congress went ahead with a charity baseball game the day after a gunman fired shots at Republicans as they practised for the encounter.

Democrats and Republicans gave a display of unity and defiance as one of their colleagues remained in a critical - but improving - condition in a Washington hospital after undergoing a third operation.

Republican Congressman Steve Scalise was shot  by James Hodgkinson, 66, from Illinois, who was reportedly a supporter of Bernie Sanders. Hodgkinson,  who witnesses said was armed a handgun and an assault rifle was shot dead by officers.

In an update on his Mr Scalise's condition, MedStarWashington Hospital said the bullet had travelled  across his pelvis, fracturing bones, injuring internal organs, and causing severe bleeding.

"He has received multiple units of blood transfusion. His condition is critical, and he will require additional operations."

 

Sen. Jeff Flake, R-Ariz., left, walks with Rep. Ryan Costello, R-Pa., before the Congressional baseball game - Credit: Alex Brandon/AP
Sen. Jeff Flake, R-Ariz., left, walks with Rep. Ryan Costello, R-Pa., before the Congressional baseball game Credit: Alex Brandon/AP

The opening pitch was thrown by David Bailey, a Capitol Police officer who rushed Hodgkinson as he took aim with his rifle.

On crutches, Mr Bailey, who was hailed a hero for his bravery along with his fellow officer, Crystal Griner, received a tumultuous welcome from thousands of people who gathered to watch the charity event.

He replaced Sir Kim Darroch, the British ambassador to Washington, who was due to throw the ceremonial pitch.

There was also a huge ovation for Mr Scalise when his name was announced ahead of the game.

In a pre-recorded video message, Donald Trump said the game had taken on a much deeper meaning following the shooting.

"By playing tonight, you have shown that we will never succumb to threats, acts of violence of assaults on our democracy."