Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman was one of a kind. She carried herself with a presence that earned both respect and admiration. She was principled in her politics, but more than that, she was kind, compassionate, and deeply committed to her colleagues and to the people of Minnesota.
I am shocked and heartbroken by the tragic killing of Speaker Hortman and her husband, Mark. My deepest condolences go out to their children—Colin and Sophie—as they face this unimaginable loss. No child should have to bury both parents at once. Minnesota grieves with you.
I’m also incredibly relieved that Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, are alive and recovering. After being shot multiple times, they received emergency medical care that saved their lives. While we breathe a collective sigh of relief, our hearts are heavy for the trauma they’ve endured.
Public servants are no strangers to hate or misinformation online, but rarely does it spill into physical violence. This was a chilling reminder that it can. And it’s a moment for all of us to reflect. Are we easing tensions and working toward solutions or adding fuel to the fire?
I want to thank law enforcement from local, state, and federal agencies for their tireless work coordinating a complex, high-stakes manhunt over more than 40 hours. Your professionalism, speed, and effectiveness brought a dangerous situation to an end. Thank you.
What’s clear from this weekend is that Minnesotans reject violence. This attack shook us all. It cut to the core of our democracy and sense of safety. But we won’t be broken by it. We won’t be drawn into cycles of violence. That’s not who we are.
I’m grateful to Speaker Hortman for the impact she had on me, on the Legislature, and on Minnesota. Her legacy will live on at the Capitol and beyond.