DENVER — Colorado leaders are speaking out after the targeted shootings of two Democratic legislators in Minnesota Saturday.
Melissa Hortman, a former Minnesota House Speaker, and her spouse were killed in their Brooklyn Park home. A second state lawmaker, Sen. John Hoffman and his wife, were shot multiple times in Champlin.
Authorities are searching for the suspect and have recovered writings listing multiple lawmakers and officials in a fake police car believed to have been used in the attacks.
U.S. Rep. Jason Crow, an Aurora Democrat, said he was horrified to hear the news:
"I’m horrified by the targeted political shootings in Minnesota.
It’s a tragedy to lose State Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark. Senator John Hoffman and his wife who were also attacked.
Political violence is never OK."
Democrat U.S. Rep. Brittany Pettersen called the incident “tragic”:
"This is tragic and terrifying. Political violence undermines the foundation of our democracy. We settle our disagreements at the ballot box, not with violence. I’m so deeply sorry to the families and loved ones of State Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband and State Senator John Hoffman and his wife as they receive care. There is no place for this in our country."
Boulder Democrat U.S. Rep. Joe Neguse called it a “dark day” for the country:
"Devastated to hear about the assassination of Minnesota State Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband, and the attempted assassination of State Senator John Hoffman and his wife. A truly dark day for our country. My wife Andrea and I are praying hard for all of the victims and their families, and our hearts go out to the people of Minnesota."
Republican U.S. Rep. Jeff Crank said he “fully condemns” the attack:
"I fully condemn the events that unfolded in Minnesota today. Lisa and I are praying for the Hortman and Hoffman families, their loved ones, and their communities during this time."
Colorado Gov. Jared Polis declared that “Colorado stands with Minnesota”:
“Colorado stands with Minnesota, and our deepest sympathies go out to those impacted by what appears to be politically motivated attacks. Make no mistake, politically motivated violence, assassinations, and attempts on the lives of elected officials are not the America we know, hold dear, and love. We must continue to reject the divisive politics and rhetoric that have become too prevalent in our country. Those involved in this heinous crime should never see the light of day again, be fully prosecuted under the law, and Colorado is ready to offer any assistance to our friends in Minnesota.”
Colorado House Republican leaders condemn the political assassination and targeted act of violence:
“This is an unconscionable act of violence,” said Minority Leader Rose Pugliese. “There is absolutely no justification for targeted attacks on elected officials—or anyone—based on their political beliefs. Our nation was built on civil discourse and the peaceful exchange of ideas, not horrific acts of violence. We are keeping the families of Rep. Hortman and Senator Hoffman in our prayers.”
Assistant Minority Leader Ty Winter added, “Political violence is not just an attack on individuals, it is an attack on our democracy itself. It has no place in Minnesota, in Colorado, or anywhere in the United States. Leaders must be able to serve without fear for their lives. We call on all Americans—regardless of party—to condemn this horrific act of violence.”
Caucus Whip Ryan Armagost stated, “Assassinations and political targeting are the darkest threat to freedom and civil society. What has occurred in Minnesota is horrifying, and any effort to rationalize or soften this act is equally dangerous. We must recommit ourselves to peaceful civic engagement.”
Caucus Chair Anthony Hartsook said, “Those who resort to political violence betray the very foundation of this country. While details continue to emerge, early reports make it clear that these lawmakers were targeted. That cannot be tolerated or ignored.”
Colorado House Republicans extend their deepest condolences to the people of Minnesota and to the families and colleagues of those affected.
Pugliese concluded, “We must draw a clear line: Violence has no place in our politics. Not now. Not ever.”
Democratic Senator Michael Bennet said his thoughts are with the victims' families:
"I am devastated to hear about the assassination of Minnesota State Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband. My thoughts remain with State Senator John Hoffman and his wife as they receive care following the assassination attempt. I am grateful to law enforcement for their immediate response. There is no place for political violence in a democracy."
Democratic Senator John Hickenlooper said he was "horrified":
"Horrified by the targeted shootings in Minnesota of Rep. Hortman, Sen. Hoffman, and their spouses. Political violence has ZERO place in this country."
Colorado Attorney General and Democratic candidate for governor Phil Weiser said "Politically motivated violence is a threat to our republic":
"My heart is with the families of the victims, I am pulling for Senator Hoffman and his wife, and know that Speaker Hortman and her husband's memories will live on as a blessing. Politically motivated violence is a threat to our republic and perpetrators of it must face justice."
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