A statement from the DFL Environmental Caucus

The DFL Environmental Caucus is devastated by the assassination of Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark, and by the shooting of Senator John Hoffman and his wife Yvette, whom we wish a full and speedy recovery. We thank all those working to keep our communities and legislators safe in the aftermath of this horrific attack and earnestly hope that the perpetrator will be brought to justice.

Melissa Hortman was one of the greatest political leaders Minnesota has ever produced. She was intelligent, she was funny, she was welcoming, and she led with her values. She fought hard, but never with malice, and had friends across the state and on either side of the aisle.

She will be remembered as a giant in our state’s history. Guided by her leadership, the Minnesota Legislature passed some of its greatest environmental victories in history: the 100% Clean Electricity Law, Amara’s Law on forever chemicals, the Cumulative Impacts Law, the Twin Cities-area sales tax for transit, and much more.

We will forever honor her legacy and help to carry on her fight for a healthy, inclusive, and beautiful Minnesota future.