Hartford, CT — The political world is reeling after the shocking assassination of Minnesota State Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, in a violent attack that also critically injured State Senator John A. Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, outside Minneapolis.
Connecticut Attorney General William Tong issued a solemn and emotionally charged statement in response to the tragic news, calling for unity, justice, and national reflection in the face of this political violence.
“I pray for the grieving family of Melissa and Mark Hortman, for the recovery of John and Yvette Hoffman, and for the soul of our country,” Tong said in the statement released Friday. “I pray for the police, and the safe and swift apprehension of this deranged and dangerous individual. I pray for the millions of Americans taking to the streets today who know that the better angels of our nation must and will prevail through this perilous anger and chaos.”
The incident, which occurred just outside the Twin Cities, has been described by authorities as a targeted and politically motivated attack. Law enforcement agencies are actively pursuing the suspect, who remains at large as of this writing.
Representative Hortman, a long-serving and highly respected leader in Minnesota’s House of Representatives, was known for her fierce advocacy for education reform, climate action, and reproductive rights. Her husband Mark, though not a public official, was often seen by her side during public engagements and community initiatives.
“I pray for the grieving family of Melissa and Mark Hortman, for the recovery of John and Yvette Hoffman, and for the soul of our country. I pray for the police, and the safe and swift apprehension of this deranged and dangerous individual. I pray for the millions of Americans taking to the streets today who know that the better angels of our nation must and will prevail through this perilous anger and chaos,” said Connecticut Attorney General Tong.
Senator Hoffman and his wife Yvette are reportedly in critical but stable condition, and remain under intensive medical care.
The attack has sparked outrage, grief, and widespread calls for increased protections for public officials, many of whom have faced escalating threats amid a deeply polarized political climate.
Across the nation, vigils are being held to honor the victims, and demonstrators are marching in cities large and small, denouncing political violence and demanding unity and accountability.
Attorney General Tong, known for his own impassioned calls for democratic integrity and public service, urged Americans not to surrender to despair.
“This is a moment of reckoning,” Tong said. “We must respond not with hatred, but with resolve. Not with silence, but with action. We owe that to Melissa, Mark, and all who serve our communities with courage and compassion.”
No further details about the suspect or the motive have been officially released. Federal authorities are assisting in the investigation.
This tragedy marks one of the most significant acts of political violence in the U.S. in recent years and is likely to ignite national debates about security, civil discourse, and the responsibilities of public service in turbulent times.
This story is developing. Stay tuned for updates.
