Minnesota Democratic Leader Killed, State Senator Wounded in Targeted Political Shooting

Minnesota is grappling with a devastating politically motivated shooting that resulted in the death of Democratic House leader Melissa Hortman and her husband, while State Senator John Hoffman and his wife were seriously wounded but survived. The gunman, who impersonated a police officer using a fake police vehicle, targeted these lawmakers in their homes, prompting a massive manhunt and shelter-in-place orders in Brooklyn Park. Governor Tim Walz condemned the attack as a cold-blooded assassination, emphasizing the need to stand against political violence nationwide. Hortman, a prominent figure who had served as House speaker and led efforts to maintain bipartisan cooperation, was mourned as a formidable and dedicated public servant. The suspect reportedly carried a manifesto listing other Democratic politicians and abortion providers as targets, underscoring the chilling premeditation behind the shootings. This tragic event has shocked Minnesota and the nation, highlighting the escalating threat of violence against elected officials.