UPDATE: Democratic leaders are condemning former President Donald Trump for spreading false claims on Truth Social regarding the tragic death of former Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman. This urgent reaction follows Trump’s suggestion that Minnesota Governor Tim Walz played a role in Hortman’s assassination, igniting outrage across the political landscape.
On June 14, 2023, Hortman and her husband were fatally shot in their home in Brooklyn Park, Minnesota. Their dog also suffered fatal injuries during the attack. The suspect, Vance Boelter, faces serious state and federal charges, including the shootings of State Senator John Hoffman and his wife on the same night. Currently, Boelter remains in custody in Sherburne County.
House DFL Leader Zack Stephenson expressed his deep anger, stating, “Tonight, Donald Trump is spreading outrageous lies about her death. I cannot begin to explain the pain he is causing.” He emphasized that Hortman and Walz were close allies, dismissing Trump’s claims as “lies.”
In a joint statement, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, chair of the Democratic Governors Association, and Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, vice chair, condemned Trump’s rhetoric as “dangerous and hateful.” They stressed the need for leaders to unify and promote safety rather than propagate incendiary conspiracy theories.
Senate Majority Leader Erin Murphy described Trump’s posts as “soulless” and highlighted the broader implications of such dangerous lies. “Lying about the assassinations of the Hortmans puts people in danger and fans the flames of political violence,” Murphy added, calling on all Minnesota Republicans to reject Trump’s narrative and uphold the truth.
The emotional toll on the Minnesota community has been profound. Hortman’s tragic death and the ongoing violence have left many in mourning. The bipartisan outcry against Trump’s statements reflects a growing concern for political discourse and public safety.
In response to inquiries about Trump’s posts, House Speaker Lisa Demuth, a Republican from Cold Springs, remarked, “Melissa Hortman was a friend and colleague, and her life was cut short far too soon in an unspeakable act of evil by a deranged killer.” She emphasized that justice must be served, with the perpetrator deserving a life sentence.
As this story develops, the implications of political rhetoric and its impact on violence remain at the forefront. Leaders from both sides of the aisle are urged to prioritize community safety and support for grieving families. The urgency of this situation cannot be overstated; as communities grapple with loss, the need for responsible leadership and solidarity is critical.
