Minnesota Lawmaker Killed in Political Assassination, Senator Injured

In a chilling act of political violence, Minnesota state lawmaker Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark Ali were fatally shot in Brooklyn Park, while Senator John Hoffman and his wife survived a related attack in Champlin. Governor Tim Walz labeled the overnight shootings a "politically motivated assassination," shaking the state’s foundation of peaceful discourse.

The suspect, disguised as a police officer with black body armor, a badge, and a police-style SUV, struck at 2 a.m. Hortman, a Democratic–Farmer–Labor Party (DFL) Speaker Emerita, and her husband were killed at their home. In Champlin, Senator Hoffman and his wife were shot multiple times but are recovering post-surgery. The assailant exchanged gunfire with police before fleeing, prompting a massive manhunt involving the FBI, Minnesota BCA, and local forces.

A manifesto found in the suspect’s vehicle named multiple lawmakers, signaling a broader threat. Authorities have alerted those targeted and issued a shelter-in-place order within a 3-mile radius of Edinburgh Golf Course. Residents are urged not to open doors unless two uniformed officers are present, as the suspect exploited trust in law enforcement to gain access.

Governor Walz, visibly shaken, praised Hortman’s legacy: "She was a giant in Minnesota politics, serving with grace and humor. Her loss is irreplaceable." He expressed cautious optimism for the Hoffmans’ recovery and condemned the attack as an assault on democracy. President Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi vowed swift justice, with Bondi stating on X, "This horrific violence will not be tolerated."

The State Emergency Operations Center is activated, and Minnesota remains on edge as the suspect remains at large. Authorities urge anyone with information to call 911.