Statement on the Apparent Assassination of Minnesota Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman
June 16, 2025June 16, 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Jessica Margiotta, Director of Communications, Office of Senator Tarr | Cell: 978-675-6109 | jessica.margiotta@masenate.gov
Statement on the Apparent Assassination of Minnesota Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman
Boston (06/14/2025) – Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr (R-Gloucester) released the following statement today regarding the apparent assassination of Minnesota Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman:
“I am deeply shocked and saddened by the horrific acts of violence that have taken the lives of Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark, and by the attempted assassinations of State Senator John Hoffman and his wife Yvette.
These senseless and appalling attacks are a direct affront to the principles of democracy and civil society. When violence enters our public life – whether in the streets, online or behind closed doors – it undermines the very fabric of our shared civic trust.
At this difficult time, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Melissa and Mark Hortman, and my thoughts and prayers for Senator Hoffman and his wife as they begin the difficult journey of healing.
Violence must never take the place of respectful dialogue, civil disagreement, or open debate. In a democracy, we resolve our differences through discussion and the exercise of free speech—not through threats or acts of violence.
I condemn these cowardly acts in the strongest possible terms and stand united with those across the country who refuse to allow fear or violence to silence the voices of public servants or the people they represent.”
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Thank you,
Jessica Margiotta
Director of Communications
Office of the Senate Minority Leader | State Senator Bruce E. Tarr
Massachusetts State House, Room 308 | Boston, MA 02133
Office: 617-722-1600, ext. 1603| Cell: 978-675-6109
Email: jessica.margiotta@masenate.gov
