US politicians are playing in a charity baseball game a day after a shooting - as they practised - wounded a top Republican and three others.

The annual congressional baseball game in Washington has been hailed as a rare and welcome moment of unity among lawmakers of both major parties.

House Majority Whip Steve Scalise remains critical but improving after the Virginia baseball field ambush.

There were huge cheers when his name was heard around the stadium.

"Not here, but in our thoughts and prayers, Steve Scalise," said the announcer before the game.

One of the Capitol Police officers, David Bailey, who was hailed as a hero for the way he helped to subdue the gunman, appeared on crutches.

To loud applause he threw the first pitch, which is a longstanding baseball ritual that usually falls to a dignitary or celebrity.

President Donald Trump did not attend but sent a video message of support.

The game, held at Nationals Park. has been a congressional tradition for more than a century.

Both Republicans and Democrats have pointed to the attack as a reason to ease heated political rhetoric.

The suspected gunman, James T Hodgkinson, died from injuries hours after Wednesday's shooting.

The 66-year-old suspect from Belleville, Illinois, was a volunteer for Senator Bernie Sanders' presidential campaign but whether he was politically motivated is still unclear, investigators said.

Source:
courtesy of BBC NEWS

by BBC NEWS

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