Minnesota Honors Melissa, Mark Hortman After Political Shooting

Minnesota Speaker of the House Emerita Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark were fatally shot in a politically motivated attack on June 14, which also targeted State Sen. John Hoffman and his wife. Thousands gathered to pay respects, with over 7,000 attending the visitation at the Minnesota Capitol where the Hortmans and their dog Gilbert lay in state. Their funeral service was held at the Basilica of St. Mary in Minneapolis, attended by notable figures including President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris, and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz. Biden also visited the hospitalized John Hoffman, who is recovering from his injuries sustained in the attack. The shooting has been recognized across political lines as an attack on the state's heart, prompting expressions of unity and humanity despite political differences. The funerals were private but live-streamed, allowing wider public participation in mourning the loss.