Amidst a contentious debate over the debt ceiling, with America losing more and more faith in both political parties, Gabrielle Giffords gave us a reason to be hopeful this evening:

Just six months after being shot in the head, the Arizona Congresswoman made a surprise return to Congress and received a standing ovation prior to voting in favor of the resolution. It passed by a count of 269-161.

Gabrielle Giffords Casts Debt Ceiling Vote

The debt bill is virtually guaranteed to be passed in the Senate tomorrow, as the government waited until the last possible moment to avoid a crippling default.

The measure aims to not raise any taxes, while cutting federal spending by at least $2.1 trillion over the next 10 years. It has critics on both sides, although John Boehner is not among them: "The legislation will solve this debt crisis and help get the American people back to work," the House Speaker said at a press conference.

Nancy Pelosi was less enthusiastic: "I'm not happy with it, but I'm proud of some of the accomplishments in it. That's why I'm voting for it."

All involved, however, welcomed Giffords with open, warm arms.