Duluth Mayor Roger Reinert – “There is no room for political violence in Duluth – or in Minnesota. This is not how we solve problems here, and it’s not how we get our ideas across. Today is an opportunity for each of us to ask ourselves, are we doing things to help combat this growing trend, or contribute to it? Melissa and John are both personal friends. Melissa was the mentor for my freshman class when I was elected to the House. John and I served in the Senate together and quickly became friends. I am praying for their families and ask you to join me.”
Business icon Mark Labovitz – “I was fortunate to have met Speaker Melissa Hortman in 2004, working on the Kerry campaign during her first successful run. I wish I had words that could comfort her family. She was a real hero. Always constructive, a role model for how to engage with civility and humility and be an effective leader. A tragic loss of a very admirable person. We all will miss her.”
Former Duluth Mayor Gary Doty – “When I first heard the news of the shooting of elected public officials and their families, it actually made me physically upset. Having served 29 years in public elected office, my immediate thought was that my feelings were because I could identify with threats to public officials and their families, as my family and I had experienced that during my tenure in office. As I was out in the community today, I found that many people had the same reaction as I and had never served in public office. I was angry as I listened to news media coverage of this tragedy and attempts by both Republicans and Democrats to make political points by blaming each other. This was not a Republican or a Democrat who did this, but someone who is mentally deranged. Unfortunately, the finger-pointing doesn’t surprise me, and it must stop at all government levels. The days of working together, not hating others, and trying to destroy them because they have a different opinion than you have long passed. Even what used to be peaceful disagreements and protests have now turned into angry, vulgar demonstrations that only incite hate and destruction. We all have a responsibility to turn back the clock and return civility to politics and government and everything we do. Today, I heard an elected Federal politician trying to justify her party’s position by saying we must move beyond thoughts and prayers. Yes, perhaps some actions can be taken that will lower the temperature of disagreements, but I would ask that our thoughts and prayers continue today for the families that are victims of today’s senseless violence. I would also suggest that we keep our elected officials, regardless of political party, in our thoughts and prayers daily for their protection and the protection of their families. It is time to return to God in our families, governments, and our schools and seek His guidance to make our country and world a better place to live.”
Community leader Daniel Fanning – “Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman was a dedicated public servant who cared about everyone and getting things done for all Minnesotans. My family and I send our love and strength to her family after she and her husband Mark were killed during a senseless and cowardly act of political violence. My last interaction with her a few months ago was fitting. I saw her in the halls of the State Capitol, as I have many times before over the years. She was surrounded by others and was obviously busy. There were only a few weeks left of the regular legislative session, and things were getting tense, so I wasn’t even going to bother her, knowing she had more important things to do. As I walked past her, she said, “Hey Daniel, how’s your son? He running Duluth yet?” We laughed, I thanked her for her leadership, and she returned to work. Despite being busy in one of the most important roles in the state, she always took time to talk with people. She was always caring and compassionate. She had teased me a few years earlier for gushing so much about my kids on social media. She also said good job and said that’s what proud parents should do. She was Speaker of the House at the time and obviously spoke to many people and followed thousands more on social media, yet always remembered me and addressed me by name. I’m sure she did that with many others, too, which made her so special. She cared about all Minnesotans. She had a significant impact and her leadership style and legacy will inspire many for years to come. She’ll be deeply missed.”
My longtime hero, Fred Friedman – “This early morning’s – June 14 – assassinations and attempted assassinations remind me of the politics by murder of the 1960s and early 70s that reset the course of America for the following decades. These events are not supposed to happen in Minnesota, but for the second time in five years, two far different murders in our state have seized the national headlines. I will have more to say after the authorities identify the confirmed killer or killers – if Howie will have me – but for the time being we need to soften the angry and violent rhetoric in private, in the print and electronic press, and in social media which has way too wide an anonymous voice and way too little responsibility. In the meantime, I’m all for prayers, but please acknowledge that prayers alone are not enough.”
Former Duluth City Councilor Zack Filipovich – “My heart goes out to the families of Speaker Hortman and Senator Hoffman. Violence is never the answer. America’s strength comes from the diversity of this country, discussing important issues, and agreeing to compromises. This political violence is an affront to the values that make this country great.”
Duluth Area Chamber of Commerce President Matt Baumgartner – “My heart is broken by the news of the shootings targeting State Representative Melissa Hortman, her husband Mark, and Senator John Hoffman and his wife. I have worked with both and knew them as hardworking people who cared deeply about Minnesotans. These attacks, perpetrated by someone posing as a police officer and motivated by political intent, are both an unspeakable personal tragedy and a profound assault on our democracy. I’m holding their families, the Bloomington Park and Champlin communities, and all Minnesotans in my thoughts. I’m also thankful for our law enforcement and first responders working under immense pressure. These events remind us of the fragility of civil discourse and the vital importance of condemning violence in all forms. We must stand stronger together, in compassion and unity, and demand accountability and justice. I’m committed to helping in any way I can.”
