Minnesota is reeling today after an overnight attack on two Democratic state lawmakers and their families, an apparent act of political violence that has left one prominent leader dead and another critically injured.
Democratic State Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband were shot and killed in their home, while Democratic State Senator John Hoffman and his wife were severely wounded in a separate incident.
Governor Tim Walz, in a somber Saturday morning press conference, confirmed the deaths of Rep. Hortman and her husband, describing the killings as a “politically-motivated assassination.” He expressed cautious optimism for the survival of Senator Hoffman and his wife, who remain hospitalized.
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“My good friend and colleague, Speaker Melissa Hortman, and her husband, Mark, were shot and killed early this morning in what appears to be a politically-motivated assassination,” Governor Walz stated, his voice heavy with emotion. “Our state lost a great leader, and I lost the dearest of friends. Speaker Hortman was someone who served the people of Minnesota with grace, compassion, humor and a sense of service. She was a formidable public servant, a fixture and a giant in Minnesota. She woke up every day determined to make this state a better place. She is irreplaceable, and will be missed by so many. Minnesota’s thoughts and prayers are with her family, her loved ones, her children and her parents.”
Authorities revealed a chilling detail: the suspect is believed to have impersonated a law enforcement officer, even parking a vehicle with police lights at Hortman’s residence.
The suspect exchanged gunfire with police overnight and remains at large, prompting a massive multi-agency manhunt across the state. Local residents have been instructed to shelter in place as law enforcement works to apprehend the individual responsible.
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During their press conference, police officials confirmed the recovery of a manifesto from a vehicle found at Hortman’s home. The document reportedly contained a list of political figures, including both Rep. Hortman and Sen. Hoffman, suggesting a targeted attack on elected officials.
In a grave warning to the public, police officials urged residents to exercise extreme caution. They advised individuals not to respond to anyone claiming to be law enforcement at their door unless they see two officers together, and to immediately call 911 to verify identities before opening their doors.
The shocking events have sent a ripple of fear and outrage throughout the state and across the nation, raising serious concerns about the escalating climate of political animosity. As the manhunt continues, Minnesota grapples with the loss of a dedicated public servant and the stark reality of politically-motivated violence striking at the heart of its democracy. Authorities stated they are currently seeking “people of interest” in connection with the attacks.
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