Arizona Senate Republicans Condemn Assassination, Political Violence in Minnesota

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                                         

Saturday, June 14, 2025

Arizona Senate Republicans Condemn Assassination,

Political Violence in Minnesota

PHOENIX, ARIZONA— Arizona Senate Republicans are condemning the devastating acts of political violence happening in Minnesota overnight, where democrat state Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, were fatally shot at their home in Brooklyn Park. In a related incident, democrat state Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, were shot multiple times at their home in Champlin and are alive after undergoing surgery.

The suspect, who remains at large, was impersonating a police officer, wearing tactical gear and driving a vehicle resembling a police SUV, sources claim.  The attacks are described as politically motivated, with the suspect having stacks of 'No Kings' flyers in his vehicle at the time of the brutal attacks.

"We are horrified by the cold-blooded assassinations of Representative Hortman, her husband, and the brutal attack on Senator Hoffman and his wife. Such acts of political violence are an assault on our democracy," said Senate Majority Leader Janae Shamp. "Arizona stands shoulder-to-shoulder with Minnesota, praying for the recovery of Senator Hoffman and his wife. No public servant should face violence for their legislative views, especially when working across party lines to address critical issues."

"Targeting elected officials and their families for their legislative decisions is a horrible act of violence that will not be tolerated," said Senate Majority Whip Frank Carroll. "What happened in Minnesota today resembles foreign interests and organized crime, attempting to influence the government. We unequivocally condemn this violence and call on Arizonans to reject hatred and division. Our hearts go out to the victims of the Minnesota communities reeling from this tragedy. These violent acts remind us of the dangers public servants face in today's polarized world. We mourn for Minnesota and demand an end to violence as means of political expression. We need to protect those who serve."

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For more information, contact:

Kim Quintero

Director of Communications | Arizona State Senate Republican Caucus kquintero@azleg.gov