SALT LAKE CITY, Utah, June 14, 2025 (Gephardt Daily) -- Utah leaders are releasing statements after a gunman killed former Minnesota Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband and attempted to murder Sen. John A. Hoffman and his wife, who are hospitalized and expected to survive.
The Minnesota elected officials shot were Democrats. Minnesota officials say the shootings were politically motivated, based on a manifesto found in the suspected shooter's vehicle.
The suspect was leaving the Hortmans' home as police arrived. He exchanged gunfire with officers before escaping and is still at large as of the last police update.
Saturday afternoon, Minnesota Public Safety officials identified the suspect as Vance L. Boelter.
Minnesota Rep. Melissa Hortman and Sen. John A Hoffman
The statement from Utah Democratic leaders appears below.
Utah State Sen. Luz Escamilla and Rep. Angela Romero released the following statement:
"We are heartbroken and outraged by the targeted political violence that took the lives of Minnesota State Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband, and seriously injured State Senator John Hoffman and his wife.
"Our thoughts are with their families, loved ones, and the Minnesota Legislature during this time.
"As leaders, we had the opportunity to work with Representative Melissa Hortman. Representative Hortman was a strong voice for equality, environmental justice, and the most vulnerable in her state. She was a fierce advocate for reproductive rights and for all Minnesotans. Her loss is immeasurable.
"Political violence has no place in our democracy. No one, elected or not, should ever fear for their safety when expressing their beliefs or serving their communities. We urge leaders at every level to recognize the tragedy of this moment and commit to deflating divisive and harmful rhetoric in our communities."
Utah Gov. Spencer Cox, a Republican, also posted on social media.
"The attack in Minnesota is a heartbreaking reminder of what happens when we allow hatred to replace our shared humanity," Cox wrote. "My heart goes out to the lawmakers and their families during this devastating time.
"In a free society, disagreement is inevitable. Violence is not. We must recommit to the virtues that hold us together—and to the conviction that every person, regardless of politics, deserves our respect."
Salt Lake County Mayor Jenny Wilson shared the following:
"My heart goes out to the family and friends of House Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, who were shot and killed in their home. My heart also goes out to State Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette. They, too, were shot while at home. I’m wishing them a quick and full recovery.
"It is my hope that justice will be swiftly served.
"Violence is never the answer. We the people can, should, and must do better."
