Louisiana State University football coach Ed Orgeron kicked off his remarks at the Southeastern Conference’s Media Days with kind words for House Majority Whip Steve Scalise, who remains hospitalized after the shooting at the Republican congressional baseball practice last month.
“I’d like to say our thoughts and our prayers of the LSU family and our coaching staff are with Congressman Steve Scalise and his family as he gets better in Washington. We know he’ll fight like a tiger,” Orgeron said Monday.
Orgeron also offered well wishes to Scalise on his Twitter account before taking the stage.
“Thoughts and prayers are with our friend Congressman Steve Scalise and his family! GEAUX TIGERS,” Orgeron said.
Thoughts and prayers are with our friend Congressman Steve Scalise and his family! GEAUX TIGERS
— Coach Ed Orgeron (@Coach_EdOrgeron) July 10, 2017
Scalise, who represents Louisiana, responded with gratitude.
“Thanks Coach O for the kind words and well wishes! #ForeverLSU,” the congressman said on his Twitter account.
Thanks Coach O for the kind words and well wishes! #ForeverLSU https://t.co/4qkPT5Kv7u
— Rep. Steve Scalise (@SteveScalise) July 10, 2017
Scalise was shot in the left hip by a gunman who opened fire on Republican lawmakers who were practicing for the annual congressional charity baseball game last month.
The bullet fractured bones, injured internal organs, and caused severe bleeding.
Scalise remains hospitalized in Washington, D.C., and underwent surgery last week for the management of an infection. The Louisiana Republican remains in serious condition.
Republicans and Democrats wore LSU baseball caps to honor Scalise at the congressional baseball game, which took place one day after the shooting.
During the College World Series last month, the LSU baseball team made Scalise an honorary coach for the Tigers, and the team gave the Louisiana Republican the first pitched baseball.
