Minnesota’s Melissa Hortman and Husband Killed in ‘Politically Motivated’ Attack
On June 14, 2025, former Minnesota House Speaker and current DFL Caucus Leader Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark Hortman, were tragically killed in what authorities are calling a politically motivated assassination. The suspect, impersonating a police officer, targeted them at their home in Brooklyn Park, a Minneapolis suburb (en.wikipedia.org).
Shocking Morning of Violence
The night of the tragedy unfolded in two deadly episodes. At around 2 a.m. CDT, a gunman, dressed in a police uniform and arriving in what appeared to be a police-style vehicle, opened fire on State Senator John Hoffman and his wife at their Champlin residence — both survived and are recovering after surgery (en.wikipedia.org). About 90 minutes later, officers went to check on Hortman’s home and found the same gunman, who again engaged them with gunfire before fleeing. Hortman and her husband were found fatally wounded inside (nypost.com).
Armed and Dangerous
After exchanging gunfire with police, the shooter managed to escape on foot. Authorities issued a shelter‑in‑place order for much of Brooklyn Park and nearby communities (axios.com). Inside the suspect’s vehicle, investigators discovered a manifesto listing multiple political figures as targets, raising alarms of a broader conspiracy (abcnews.go.com).
Political Repercussions and Condemnations
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz described the incident as “an unspeakable tragedy” and a targeted attack on democracy itself (reuters.com). Senator Amy Klobuchar, a longtime friend and political ally of Hortman, expressed being “heartbroken and horrified,” noting Hortman’s devotion to progressive causes—protecting women’s rights, clean energy, and universal free school lunches (klobuchar.senate.gov).
On the national stage, political leaders across the aisle including Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, and former President Donald Trump condemned the act, while DOJ and FBI have opened a federal investigation (reuters.com).
Legacy of Service
Born May 27, 1970, in Fridley, MN, Hortman held a BA from Boston University, a JD from University of Minnesota Law School, and a Master’s from Harvard Kennedy School (en.wikipedia.org). First elected in 2004, she rose to become Speaker from 2019 to 2024 and, amid a rare tied legislature, served as DFL House Leader from March to June 2025 (en.wikipedia.org).
Her colleagues recall her as “someone who served with grace, compassion, humor, and a sense of service,” and a “formidable public servant” who “deeply loved our state” (cbsnews.com).
Broader Context: Political Violence on the Rise
This brutal event adds to growing national concern over political extremism. It echoes past incidents like former President Trump’s 2024 assassination attempt and threats against Governor Gretchen Whitmer (time.com). With a manifesto and list in hand, authorities fear the shooter may have been motivated by extreme viewpoints, possibly involving abortion policies (abcnews.go.com).
Official Response & Next Steps
Federal and state law enforcement are collaborating in a high-stakes manhunt. Hundreds of officers have been deployed, and local protests—including the “No Kings” rallies—have been canceled or postponed amid safety concerns (apnews.com). Meanwhile, the Minnesota Department of Public Safety has reassured the public that enhanced protections are being put in place for legislators.
In summary, the assassination of Melissa Hortman and her husband has deeply shaken Minnesota and the nation, highlighting the dangers facing public figures. As the FBI-led investigation continues and the suspect remains at large, the tragedy raises urgent questions about political extremism and the safeguarding of democratic institutions.