Sat Jun 14 16:17:26 UTC 2025: **FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
**Minnesota Governor Condemns Shooting Attacks on Lawmakers as ‘Targeted Political Violence’**
**ST. PAUL, MN [Date]** – Minnesota is reeling after a series of shocking shooting attacks targeting state lawmakers. Governor Tim Walz has denounced the violence as “targeted political violence” following the death of House Democratic Leader and former Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, who were fatally shot early Saturday morning.
In a separate incident, State Senator John Hoffman and his wife were also shot and seriously wounded. They are currently undergoing treatment, and Governor Walz expressed cautious optimism for their recovery.
“An unspeakable tragedy has unfolded in Minnesota,” Walz stated during a press conference. He mourned the loss of Hortman, calling her a “great leader,” and condemned the attacks as politically motivated assassination attempts.
Authorities have identified a suspect as 57-year-old Vance Boelter, who officials say was dressed as a law enforcement officer during the attacks. A manhunt is currently underway as law enforcement agencies, including the FBI, are actively searching for the suspect.
President Donald Trump issued a statement vowing a thorough investigation. “Our Attorney General, Pam Bondi, and the FBI, are investigating the situation, and they will be prosecuting anyone involved to the fullest extent of the law,” he said. “Such horrific violence will not be tolerated in the United States of America.”
The shootings have sparked widespread concern about the rising tide of political polarization and violence in the country. GIFFORDS, the gun violence prevention organization led by former Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords, issued a statement condemning the attacks, calling them an assault on American democracy.
“I am horrified and heartbroken by last night’s attack on two patriotic public servants,” Giffords said. “An attack against lawmakers is an attack on American democracy itself. Leaders must speak out and condemn the fomenting violent extremism that threatens everything this country stands for.”
Melissa Hortman was a prominent figure in the Minnesota legislature, serving as the top House Democratic leader and a former Speaker. John Hoffman, a Democrat first elected in 2012, represents a district located north of Minneapolis.
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are urging anyone with information about the attacks to come forward. The incident underscores the growing threat of political violence in the United States and the need for unity and condemnation of such acts.
First Piper 