Senator Jeremy Miller (R-Winona) issued the following statement:

Janel and I want to take a moment to thank everyone who has reached out after Saturday’s horrific attack here in Minnesota. We are especially grateful to our local law enforcement officials who have offered extra precautions to keep us safe and all those who were involved in the tireless effort to capture the assassin. I’m still in a bit of shock, as it’s incredibly scary that something like this could happen here in Minnesota.

While some unfortunately try to use this unthinkable tragedy to deepen the political divide, it’s my hope we can all take some time to reflect and do better.

It was not the president, governor, or a political party that pulled the trigger. It was a man impersonating a police officer who brutally assassinated a member of the Minnesota House of Representatives and her husband. The same man tried to kill a State Senator and his wife. 

It’s time to tone down the dangerous rhetoric that divides people, and time to start being more respectful to one another. Differing opinions are to be expected, but it doesn’t have to be polarizing or toxic. Debates, rallies, and peaceful protests are all part of democracy, but there is no place for hate, destruction, or violence. Our country, our state, and our communities are better when we show respect to one another.

While we mourn the tragic and unnecessary loss of Melissa and Mark, Janel and I continue to pray that John and Yvette have a healthy recovery. May Melissa and Mark rest in peace.