CONCORD, NH – Senate President Sharon Carson, R-Londonderry, Senate Minority Leader Rebecca Perkins Kwoka, D-Portsmouth, and House Minority Leader Alexis Simpson, D-Exeter, reacted Saturday to the shootings of two Minnesota lawmakers and their spouses.
They were referring to Minnesota House Democratic Leader Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark being shot to death in their Brooklyn Park home Saturday morning. State Sen. John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, survived what is believed to be a related attack at their home.
Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz said the attacks appeared to be politically motivated violence.
The suspect was still on the run as of Saturday evening. He was identified as Vance Boelter, 57.
“We are shocked and heartbroken by the senseless shooting of Minnesota state lawmakers. Violence has no place in our democracy. Today, we stand united as Republicans, Democrats, and Independents in condemning this horrific act and sending our deepest sympathies and condolences to the victims, their families, and the people of Minnesota,” the statement from Carson and Perkins Kwoka said.
“Public service should never come with the threat of violence. We reaffirm our shared commitment to civility, safety, and the rule of law. We know our country is divided on many issues, but in moments like these, we must remember what unites us. We must reject the forces of hatred, political violence, and extremism in all forms.
“We call on our fellow citizens, leaders, and communities across the nation to stand firm in upholding peace and the safety of all who serve in public office. If you see something, say something. Here in New Hampshire, our citizen legislature will continue to serve the Granite State without intimidation,” the statement said.
House Democratic Leader Rep. Alexis Simpson, D-Exeter, said: “I am heartbroken and horrified by the news of the assassination of Minnesota State Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark. My every prayer is with their family, friends, colleagues, and staff, as well as with State Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, as they fight for their lives following this attack.
“Unfortunately, this tragedy does not exist in a vacuum. We are living in a time of rising political violence. We need to remain clear-eyed about the forces that enable this kind of extremism. We must continue to create and foster communities of trust and compassion and affirm our commitment to protecting democracy, truth, and the safety of all those who serve the public,” Simpson said.