Dear neighbors, On the morning of June 14, we woke to a tragedy that is still hard to comprehend. Melissa and Mark Hortman were killed in their home in an act of political violence that also took the life of their golden retriever, Gilbert. That same morning, Senator John Hoffman, his wife Yvette, and their daughter Hope were also attacked in their home by the same suspect. We are shaken, heartbroken, and grieving alongside their loved ones and our entire legislative family. Melissa served in the Minnesota House for over two decades, including six consequential years as Speaker. She was a brilliant strategist, a determined advocate, and a deeply compassionate leader. Melissa never sought headlines, TV cameras, or attention for herself. Instead, she focused on what needed to get done and delivering results for Minnesotans. Members of the public wishing to pay their respects are invited to the State Capitol rotunda this Friday, June 27 between noon and 5 p.m. when Melissa and Mark Hortman, along with Gilbert, will lie in state. Melissa will be the first woman and one of fewer than 20 Minnesotans to lie in state in the Capitol.  |