Minnesota Democrat Assassination Puts Security Under Spotlight

Newsweek

8 hours ago

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The assassination of a Minnesota state legislator has politicians on both sides of the aisle discussing the effectiveness of security details.
Both Democrats and Republicans have called for the security of politicians at a state and federal level to be examined after Minnesota politicians Mellisa Hortman and John Hoffman and their spouses were shot on Saturday.
The Context
Minnesota Democratic state Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark were shot and killed early Saturday morning at their Brooklyn Park home in an act of "targeted political violence," Governor Tim Walz said during a press conference Saturday.
The gunman was posing as law enforcement. Walz called the shooting "a politically motivated assassination."
The gunman, who remains at large, had targeted the home of Hortman after shooting state Senator John Hoffman and his wife at their home in Champlin. They both underwent surgery after the attack.
What To Know
The shooting prompted Democratic leadership in Congress to call for an investigation into their current security situations. Both of the politicians shot on Saturday were Democrats.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer asked that security be raised for the two Democratic senators for Minnesota, Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith, while House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries asked security officials to "ensure the safety of our Minnesota delegation and members of Congress across the country", according to Axios.
The astern facade of the United States Capitol building in Washington D.C. in February 2017.
The astern facade of the United States Capitol building in Washington D.C. in February 2017.
Getty Images
The most senior Democrat on the House Homeland Security Committee, Bennie Thompson, likewise called on the Capitol Police " to assist in providing real solutions for increased security for members."
Congressional Republicans also reportedly held a meeting in response to the shootings on Saturday, and discussed the potential for increasing security measures at politicians' homes and at airports when they are traveling.
After it was discovered that the suspect involved in the shooting, Vance Boelter, had leaflets related to the "No Kings" protest movement, several events in Minnesota were shut down, with a spokesperson for the event telling Newsweek that it was done, "Out of an abundance of caution."
What People Are Saying
In a statement shared with Newsweek, organizers of No Kings said: "Out of an abundance of caution and in adherence to guidance from Governor Walz and the Minnesota State Patrol, all remaining No Kings events in Minnesota are being canceled immediately.
"This decision comes in light of the ongoing shelter-in-place order and the tragic shooting that targeted two elected officials and their spouses. We are doing this in accordance with local and state guidance given the suspect is still at large impersonating a police officer.
"Our hearts are with the victims, their families, and the communities shaken by this violence. We are in close contact with our hosts, attendees, and state and local officials and remain committed to ensuring all other events around the country proceed peacefully and safely."
What Happens Next
The search for Boelter remains ongoing. Anyone with information about his location has been advised to contact the authorities.