Statement by Massachusetts Senate President Karen E. Spilka on Apparent Assassination of Minnesota Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman

BOSTON (6/14/2025) — Today, Massachusetts Senate President Karen E. Spilka issued the following statement on the apparent assassination of Minnesota Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and the shooting of Minnesota State Senator John Hoffman:

“I am heartbroken and outraged today at the news of the assassinations of Minnesota Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark, as well as the attempted assassinations of State Senator John Hoffman and his wife Yvette. 

This is political violence, pure and simple, and must be condemned in the strongest possible terms by every leader in this country. 

America’s founders envisioned a country where we address our differences through debate, not violence. We must continue to use our voices to keep advocating for the country we dream to be, even as acts of political violence seem more common. 

My thoughts are with the families of Melissa, Mark, John and Yvette, as well as our colleagues in the Minnesota state legislature, during this incredibly difficult time.”