President Donald Trump condemned what Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz described as “what appears to be a politically motivated assassination” targeting two Democrat leaders and their spouses Saturday morning.
“An unspeakable tragedy has unfolded in Minnesota,” Walz, also a Democrat, said in a press conference Saturday. “My good friend and colleague, Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, were shot and killed earlier this morning in what appears to be a politically motivated assassination.”
He said Hortman, speaker of the Minnesota House of Representatives, “served the people of Minnesota with grace, compassion, humor, and a sense of service.”
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt posted a statement from President Trump.
“I have been briefed on the terrible shooting that took place in Minnesota, which appears to be a targeted attack against State Lawmakers,” the president said. “Our Attorney General, Pam Bondi, and the FBI, are investigating the situation, and they will be prosecuting anyone involved to the fullest extent of the law.”
“Such horrific violence will not be tolerated in the United States of America,” Trump added. “God Bless the great people of Minnesota, a truly great place!”
The suspect reportedly impersonated a police officer in carrying out the shootings in Champlin and Brooklyn Park, northern suburbs of Minneapolis.
In addition to Hortman, the suspect reportedly shot state Sen. John Hoffman and his wife. Walz said he is “cautiously optimistic” they will survive.
Sen. Amy Kobuchar, D-Minn., also condemned the shooting.
“I am heartbroken and horrified by the tragic loss of Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, who were taken from us in an act of violence,” the senator wrote on X. “Melissa was a good friend and we started in politics at the same time and were always there for each other.”
“She was a true public servant to the core, dedicating her life to serving Minnesotans with integrity and compassion,” Klobuchar added. “Melissa’s legacy will endure, but today we grieve deeply.” Referring to her husband, John Bessler, the senator added, “John’s and my prayers are with their children, their loved ones, and all who are mourning this devastating loss.”
House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, R-La., himself a victim of politically-motivated violence, also condemned the shooting.
“Horrible news today of yet more instances of political violence with the shooting of Minnesota State Rep. Melissa Hortman and State Senator John Hoffman,” he posted on X. “There can be no tolerance of political violence and it must be stopped. Join me in praying for their families.”
This is a breaking news story and will be updated.
