UPDATE: Democratic leaders are reacting with outrage following Donald Trump’s incendiary claims on Truth Social, suggesting that Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz was involved in the assassination of Melissa Hortman, the former Minnesota House Speaker, who was tragically killed on June 14, 2023. This shocking post has ignited a wave of condemnation from officials who are calling for accountability.
In a powerful statement released last night, House DFL Leader Zack Stephenson of Coon Rapids expressed his deep anger, stating, “Tonight, Donald Trump, who couldn’t be bothered to lower the flags to half staff or even say Melissa Hortman’s name until now, is spreading outrageous lies about her death.” The brutal attack in Brooklyn Park claimed the lives of Hortman and her husband, along with their dog, and has left the community in mourning.
Authorities have charged Vance Boelter with state and federal crimes related to the murders and additional shootings that occurred the same night, affecting Sen. John Hoffman and his wife. He is currently being held in Sherburne County.
Stephenson, who was a close friend of Hortman, emphasized the real threat behind Trump’s words: “Melissa Hortman was murdered by a right-wing, anti-abortion extremist who believed conspiracy theories about COVID. Anyone who claims otherwise is lying.” His remarks underline the troubling context of political violence that has escalated in recent times.
The chair of the Democratic Governors Association, Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear, along with Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, joined in the condemnation, stating, “We condemn, in the strongest possible terms, President Trump’s spreading of dangerous and hateful lies about our friend and colleague Governor Tim Walz.” They called for unity and responsible leadership, stressing the need to protect communities from threats, including political violence.
In a statement that resonated with many, Senate Majority Leader Erin Murphy of St. Paul described Trump’s posts as “soulless,” warning that “lying about the assassinations of the Hortmans puts people in danger and fans the flames of political violence.” She urged every Minnesota Republican to denounce Trump’s remarks and reflect on the gravity of the situation.
The calls for accountability extend beyond party lines. Beshear and Whitmer appealed to all leaders, regardless of affiliation, to confront the damaging claims made by Trump.
When asked to respond to the controversy, Speaker of the House Lisa Demuth, a Republican from Cold Springs, mourned Hortman’s loss, stating, “Her life was cut short far too soon in an unspeakable act of evil by a deranged killer.” Demuth, who is running against Walz for governor, added that the perpetrator should face lifelong imprisonment for his crimes.
This urgent situation continues to unfold as leaders across the political spectrum grapple with the implications of Trump’s statements. The political landscape is charged, and the emotional toll on the community remains palpable. As more details emerge, the focus remains on ensuring that such tragedies are not exploited for political gain.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
