FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 

State Legislators Condemn Minnesota Shootings, Renew Call for Gun Violence Prevention

Legislators for Safer Communities Mourn Tragic Loss, Honor Speaker Melissa Hortman’s Legacy of Leadership on Gun Safety 

“As state legislators dedicated to making our communities safer from gun violence, we are devastated and outraged by the horrific assassination of Minnesota State Representative and Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark. Our hearts are with their family, and we are praying for the full recovery of Minnesota State Senator John Hoffman and his wife Yvette who were also targeted in this unconscionable act of political violence.

This is not just a tragedy — it is a terrifying reminder of what happens when hatred, extremism, and easy access to firearms intersect. Violence has no place in our democracy. Disagreement is part of public service — murder is not.

Speaker Hortman never pursued gun safety reforms for recognition or political advantage – she led on this issue because it is a moral imperative. From the moment she assumed the role of Speaker, she made preventing gun violence a top priority, fully aware of the challenges ahead. Her unwavering courage and principled leadership not only advanced meaningful change in Minnesota but inspire us today in our commitment to saving lives.

We call on every elected official, regardless of party, to unequivocally condemn this attack and recommit to building a nation where political expression is never met with a bullet. Words of sympathy are not enough — we need bold, immediate action to confront and end the epidemic of gun violence that threatens us all.”