Pence visits Scalise in hospital

Vice President Pence on Thursday visited House Majority Whip Steve Scalise (R-La.) in a Washington hospital, where he is recovering from a gunshot wound.

Pence and his wife checked on Scalise and his family members and also paid a visit to Capitol Police Officer Crystal Griner, who shot dead the gunman who wounded the congressman and four others despite suffering her own injuries. Pence also thanked doctors and staff at the MedStar Washington Hospital Center, his spokesman said.

Karen & I just left @MedStarWHC. Thanked docs & staff. Keep @SteveScalise, Officer Griner & all involved & their loved ones in your prayers. pic.twitter.com/JcKwTMLPDH

— Vice President Pence (@VP) June 15, 2017

The vice president made the visit before flying to Miami for a summit meeting with Central American leaders.

President Trump and first lady Melania Trump visited Scalise in the hospital Wednesday night and brought him flowers.

The No. 3 House Republican was shot by a gunman who opened fire on a congressional baseball practice in Alexandria, Va. The shooter also wounded a congressional staffer and a lobbyist, as well as Griner and a second Capitol Police officer.

Scalise remained in critical condition as of Wednesday night, according to his office. He underwent surgery but requires additional procedures to mend significant internal injuries, including a broken hip and damage to internal organs.