Minnesota Lawmakers Targeted in Apparent Assassination Attempts; Speaker Melissa Hortman Killed
Two Minnesota state lawmakers and their spouses were shot in their homes on Saturday in what officials are calling a targeted political attack by a man reportedly impersonating a police officer.
According to multiple reports, State Sen. John Hoffman was shot in Champlin, and State House Speaker Melissa Hortman was shot in Brooklyn Park. Both lawmakers are Democrats.
Governor Tim Walz confirmed the incidents in a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), saying, “Local law enforcement in Champlin and Brooklyn Park have the full resources of the State of Minnesota behind them.”
Tragically, Speaker Hortman and her spouse succumbed to their injuries, while Sen. Hoffman and his spouse are out of surgery and expected to survive, according to Fox News.
“Our state lost a great leader,” Governor Walz said during a Saturday press briefing. “Speaker Hortman served the people of Minnesota with grace, compassion, humor, and a deep sense of service.”
Calling the shootings “an act of targeted political violence,” Walz added, “We do not settle our differences at gunpoint in the state of Minnesota. Peaceful discourse is the foundation of our democracy.”
Suspect Still at Large
Authorities described the suspect as a white male with brown hair, wearing black body armor and a blue shirt. He was last seen driving a police-style SUV with flashing lights. Residents in Champlin and Brooklyn Park have been placed under a shelter-in-place alert, and police warned the public not to approach the suspect, who is considered armed and dangerous.
Public Safety Commissioner Bob Jacobson expressed alarm over the impersonation:
“The suspect exploited the trust our uniforms represent… This betrayal is deeply disturbing.”
According to reports, the suspect exchanged gunfire with officers before fleeing. Federal and local authorities, including the FBI, are now involved in the manhunt and investigation.
Widespread Condemnation and Mourning
The shootings have sparked national outrage and sorrow.
Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) posted:
“This is a stunning act of violence. I’m thankful for all the law enforcement who are responding in real time. My prayers are with the Hortman and Hoffman families. Both legislators are close friends and devoted to their families and public service.”
Officials emphasized that this incident underscores the growing threats facing public servants, and many called for renewed focus on political civility and the protection of democratic institutions.