Not how to conduct a democracy.

Arizona Rep. Giffords Shot At Public Event In Tucson

Information about this event is still fragmented but what is clear: a legally elected public representative (and several other people) were shot while she made a public appearance and spoke with those she represents. This is not rule of law and it is not voting and it is not the sort of self-expression that counts as freedom of speech. In fact, it is the opposite of those. That is even more evident in the irony that Giffords' staff members were on hand to respond to concerns expressed (in speech) by her constituents.

Perhaps we'll learn that the shooter was delusional and had no political agenda. Then we will not be able to point to this as an example of anti-democratic behavior and the need to better form our citizens and to cultivate the habits of democracy. But, even if the shooter was delusional and had no political agenda, those realities will still exist as will the reality that this person had a gun to shoot with.