Minnesota Lawmakers Assassinated in Politically Motivated Attack, FBI Hunts Suspect

Minnesota is mourning the assassination of former Speaker of the House Melissa Hortman and her husband in a politically motivated attack that also wounded State Senator John Hoffman and his wife. Senator Amy Klobuchar, a longtime friend of Hortman, paid tribute to her as an extraordinary public servant loved by both Democrats and Republicans, highlighting Hortman's dedication as a mother, community volunteer, and legislator who championed landmark policies like free school lunch and paid family leave. Klobuchar shared that she had dined with Hortman just hours before the attack, underscoring the personal loss and the chilling nature of political violence. The suspect, Vance Boelter, allegedly impersonated a police officer to gain entry to the victims' homes and is considered armed and dangerous, prompting a manhunt with a $50,000 FBI reward for information leading to his capture. Authorities reported that Senator Hoffman and his wife are in stable condition following multiple surgeries. The tragedy has sparked calls for vigilance against political violence and remembrance of Hortman's bipartisan impact and community commitment.