Governor Tim Walz Statement on the assassination of Melissa Hortman

Statement on Targeted Political Violence.

June 14, 2025
[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today released the following statement following violence targeted at democratic lawmakers and the assassination of House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark Hortman.

''Today, Minnesota lost a great leader, and I lost a friend.'' A formidable public servant and a fixture of the state Capitol, Melissa Hortman woke up every day determined to make our state a better place. She served the people of Minnesota with grace, compassion, and tirelessness. Minnesota’s thoughts are with her loved ones, and my prayers are with Senator John Hoffman and his wife Yvette, who were shot and wounded and are being treated.

“We are not a country that settles our differences at gunpoint. We have demonstrated again and again in our state that it is possible to peacefully disagree, that our state is strengthened by civil public debate. We must stand united against all forms of violence – and I call on everyone to join me in that commitment.

“To the responding officers, thank you for your bravery and your swift action. A state Bureau of Criminal Apprehension investigation is underway, and we will spare no resource in bringing those responsible to justice. We will not let fear win.”