State Democratic congresswoman shot dead in Minnesota

Minneapolis.- A wave of political violence shook the state of Minnesota this Saturday, after two state legislators were shot at their homes in separate incidents that occurred in the north of the Minneapolis metropolitan area. State Representative Melissa Hortman, one of the most prominent figures of the Democratic Party in the state, was shot dead along with her husband at their residence in Champlin. In a attack separate, State Senator John Hoffman and his wife were injured by gunshots at their home in Brooklyn Park. The authorities have confirmed that both incidents are being treated as deliberate and allegedly coordinated attacks. Governor Tim Walz called the events an "act of political violence," and expressed his dismay during a press conference: “Peaceful dialogue is the basis of our democracy. We do not resolve our differences with violence or at gunpoint.”

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Melissa Hortman, 54, was a Democratic leader in the Legislative Assembly and former Speaker of the Minnesota House of Representatives. She was first elected in 2004 and was known for her commitment to social justice and the environment. A lawyer by profession and mother of two, her murder has generated a wave of shock in both the political class and the citizenry. "My good friend and colleague, President Melissa Hortman, has been brutally murdered this morning along with her husband Mark," said Governor Walz, visibly affected. "She was an irreplaceable figure, an admirable public servant who dedicated her life to improving this state." Meanwhile, Senator John Hoffman, also a Democrat, and his wife are hospitalized after undergoing surgery. "We are cautiously optimistic about their recovery," Walz said. Hoffman was first elected senator in 2012. He owns a consulting company and previously served as vice president of the Anoka-Hennepin School Board. Authorities are investigating the events, and it has been preliminarily reported that the suspect may have impersonated a law enforcement officer to enter the homes. The exact motives have not yet been determined, and the investigation is ongoing. Federal Senator Tina Smith expressed her dismay through social media: “Minnesota woke up today with a tragedy. I have worked closely with Melissa and John for years. My thoughts are with their families, and I appreciate the quick response from the authorities”.