Deadly Attack on Democracy - Minnesota in Shock

It is an attack that changes everything: In the early morning hours of June 14, 2025, two elected representatives in Minnesota became the target of a brutal and apparently politically motivated act of violence in their own homes. Melissa Hortman, a long-serving Democratic representative and caucus leader in the House of Representatives, was fatally shot along with her husband. Senator John Hoffman and his wife Yvette survived with serious injuries. The perpetrators - disguised as police officers, wearing deceptively real-looking uniforms and using a vehicle styled like a police car.

The attack took place in two waves, within a very short period. First at Hoffman’s residence in Champlin, then at Hortman’s home in Brooklyn Park - less than five miles apart. One of the suspected perpetrators was arrested after an exchange of gunfire with the police. The second is still at large. Authorities speak of a targeted attack on political representatives. A state of emergency was declared. Police urged residents not to open their doors if only a single uniformed person appears - and to call 911 immediately if in doubt.

Governor Tim Walz expressed deep shock: "We don't settle our differences with violence or at gunpoint," he said at a press conference. "In Minnesota, the politically most divided legislature in the country, we sat down just last week, shook hands, found compromises - that's how democracy works." In his address, he condemned all forms of political violence and called for unity and composure. "A cowardly enemy disguised as a protector," is how the director of the Sheriff's Association described the perpetrator or perpetrators.

The shock extends far beyond Minnesota. Amid an already tense political climate, the planned "No Kings" protest in Minneapolis was canceled. Organizers stated they wanted to show respect while the state mourns its injured and fallen representatives. ATF agents and the FBI are also participating in the ongoing manhunt. It is still unclear whether the attacks had a shared motive or were part of an organized structure - but suspicion is growing.

Melissa Hortman had represented Minnesota House District 34B since 2005. John Hoffman, senator for the same district in the upper chamber, had served in the Senate since 2013. Both were seen as integrative figures - respected across party lines, committed to education, social justice, and democratic values. The fact that these very voices have now been silenced or wounded speaks volumes.

On the eve of "Flag Day" - a day on which the United States celebrates the founding of its army and national unity - this attack strikes at the heart of the American idea. Democracy was not attacked on a battlefield, but in a living room. And the country must ask itself: If the protection of freedom can no longer be guaranteed even within one’s own four walls - where does security begin?

Minnesota is in shock. And with it a nation that realizes: The danger to democracy does not only come from the outside. It sometimes lurks right at the door - disguised, armed, determined. But as great as the horror is, so is the determination of many not to remain silent now. But to speak out for what holds this society together: justice, compassion - and the will to never be ruled by fear.