Midwest Lawmakers Named in Minnesota Shooter's Writings Vow Resilience

Vance Boelter, a 57-year-old Minnesota gunman, has been charged with federal murder and stalking after a manhunt following the fatal shooting of former Democratic House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, and the wounding of Democratic Sen. John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette. Boelter's writings reportedly included the names of about 45 Minnesota state and federal officials, as well as lawmakers from other Midwest states such as Senators Tammy Duckworth and Representatives Emanuel Cleaver and Nikki Budzinski. Authorities have not disclosed a motive, but the targeted officials, all Democrats, have responded with resilience and determination to continue their work despite being threatened. Minnesota state Rep. Esther Agbaje and US Rep. Debbie Dingell from Michigan emphasized unity and refusing to be terrorized, with Dingell holding a town hall despite being named in the writings. Michigan Rep. Hillary Scholten, also named on the list, postponed a town hall for safety but vowed not to be deterred, receiving protective security from local police. The incident has prompted lawmakers to reaffirm their commitment to public service and reject division and violence as tools of political intimidation.