UPDATE: Democratic leaders are reacting swiftly to President Donald Trump’s incendiary claims regarding the tragic death of former Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman. In a series of posts on Truth Social, Trump suggested that Minnesota Governor Tim Walz was involved in Hortman’s assassination, sparking outrage across the political spectrum.
The statements come in the wake of Hortman and her husband being fatally shot in their Brooklyn Park home on June 14, 2023. House DFL Leader Zack Stephenson expressed his profound anger in a statement released Saturday night, emphasizing, “Tonight, Donald Trump, who couldn’t be bothered to lower the flags to half staff, is spreading outrageous lies about her death.” His comments underscore the pain inflicted on a community already grieving a horrific loss.
Authorities have charged Vance Boelter in connection with the Hortmans’ murders, along with the shootings of Senator John Hoffman and his wife that same night. Boelter is currently in custody in Sherburne County. “Melissa Hortman was a friend and ally to Governor Walz. Anyone who claims otherwise is lying,” Stephenson added.
Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, chair of the Democratic Governors Association, and Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, vice chair, issued a joint statement denouncing Trump’s remarks. “As leaders, it is our responsibility to bring people together and keep our communities safe from threats,” they stated, stressing the importance of unity in the face of political violence.
Senate Majority Leader Erin Murphy called Trump’s posts “soulless,” stating, “Lying about the assassinations of the Hortmans puts people in danger and fans the flames of political violence.” She urged every Minnesota Republican to condemn Trump’s divisive rhetoric.
As the fallout continues, Beshear and Whitmer are calling on all political leaders, regardless of party, to denounce Trump’s dangerous claims. Their appeal highlights the urgency of addressing the potential for increased political violence stemming from such rhetoric.
In response to Trump’s statements, House Speaker Lisa Demuth acknowledged the pain caused by the violence, affirming, “Melissa Hortman was a friend and colleague, and her life was cut short far too soon.” Demuth, who is currently running for governor against Walz, reiterated the need for accountability and justice for the Hortman family.
As this situation unfolds, the implications of Trump’s comments resonate deeply within the political landscape and the community, raising questions about the responsibility of leaders in times of grief. The call for truth and unity continues to grow as more voices join the condemnation.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
