Hundreds gathered in Minneapolis to mourn the loss of former minnesota House Speaker Emerita Melissa hortman and her husband, Mark Hortman. The couple was tragically killed in their Brooklyn Park home weeks earlier, in what authorities suspect was a politically motivated attack. The funeral service drew prominent figures from across the political spectrum, including former President Joe Biden and former Vice President Kamala Harris, underscoring the profound impact of the Hortmans’ lives and the shock felt by the nation.
The service honored a public servant lauded for her dedication and a couple cherished for their humanity. It also served as a somber reminder of the escalating concerns surrounding political violence and its threat to democratic institutions.
Honoring a Life of Public Service and Love
The private funeral service took place on Saturday morning at the Basilica of St. Mary in Minneapolis. The historic church was filled with mourners, including a broad representation of Minnesota’s political community, along with national leaders. Governor Tim Walz, who also served as a pallbearer, was visibly emotional as he delivered a heartfelt eulogy.
Walz remembered Melissa Hortman as a close friend, mentor, and an exceptionally talented legislator. He described her as “the most consequential speaker in Minnesota history,” praising her relentless focus on achieving positive outcomes for the people of Minnesota. Mark Hortman was celebrated as Melissa’s devoted partner and biggest supporter, known for his love of family and simple joys like playing pool and making sourdough bread.
Tributes Reflecting Impact and Humanity
Other speakers shared personal anecdotes and reflections on the Hortmans’ character. Father Daniel Griffith, who led the Catholic Mass, spoke of their generosity, often opening their home to guests, affectionately calling it the “Hortman Hotel.” He highlighted Melissa’s embodiment of Catholic social teaching, noting her commitment to serving the common good and advocating for the less fortunate.
The couple’s son, Colin Hortman, fought back tears as he read the Prayer of St. Francis of Assisi, a prayer his mother reportedly kept in her wallet. The blend of political tributes and deeply personal memories painted a vivid picture of a couple dedicated to both their community and each other. Even political rivals, like former GOP House Speaker Kurt Daudt, offered tearful tributes, acknowledging Melissa’s effectiveness as a bridge-builder and urging a return to more respectful political discourse in light of the tragedy.
A Community United in Grief at the Capitol
Before the funeral, thousands of Minnesotans paid their respects at the Minnesota Capitol Rotunda in St. Paul. On Friday, June 27, Melissa and Mark Hortman lay in state, an honor rarely bestowed.
Melissa Hortman was the first woman in Minnesota history to receive this distinction. In an unprecedented gesture symbolizing the depth of loss, their beloved golden retriever, Gilbert, who also died in the attack, was included in the tribute. An estimated 7,500 people passed through the Rotunda, reflecting the widespread grief and admiration for the couple. Governor Walz and former President Biden were among the first to pay their respects there.
The Tragic Events of June 14
The Hortmans’ deaths stemmed from a horrific series of events on June 14. Melissa and Mark Hortman were shot and killed in their Brooklyn Park residence. On the same day, just ninety minutes earlier, Democratic state Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette Hoffman, were also shot at their nearby home in Champlin. Fortunately, the Hoffmans survived, though Senator Hoffman required hospitalization.
Authorities swiftly launched what became the largest manhunt in state history, involving over 200 law enforcement officers. The suspect, 57-year-old Vance Boelter, was apprehended two days later in a field, found to be armed.
Suspect, Motive, and a Chilling List
Investigators believe Boelter impersonated a law enforcement officer to gain access to the lawmakers’ homes, wearing a vest, blue shirt, and what appeared to be a badge. Authorities described the slayings as part of a larger plan targeting politicians.
A significant and disturbing piece of evidence recovered was a notebook belonging to Boelter. It reportedly contained a “target list” featuring the names of dozens of politicians. The list specifically highlighted those who have vocally supported abortion rights and included prominent state and federal figures from Minnesota, such as Governor Walz and U.S. Representative Ilhan Omar, as well as lawmakers in states beyond Minnesota, including Wisconsin, Illinois, Michigan, Nebraska, and Iowa. Boelter has pleaded not guilty to the charges he faces, which include murder and stalking, and could potentially face federal charges carrying the death penalty.
A Reflection of Rising Political Violence
The attack on the Hortmans and Hoffmans occurred amid a troubling national trend of increasing political violence and threats against public officials. Recent years have seen other high-profile incidents, such as the 2020 plot to kidnap Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, reported assassination attempts against former President Donald Trump, and the April firebombing of Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro’s residence.
This pattern underscores the growing dangers faced by elected representatives and the fragility of civil discourse in a deeply polarized nation. The inclusion of politicians from multiple states on the suspect’s list highlights the potentially widespread nature of such threats.
Political Responses and Contrasts
The immediate aftermath of the Hortmans’ deaths saw a rare moment of bipartisan unity, with top leaders from both Democratic and Republican parties, including former President Trump, condemning the violence.
However, President Trump’s subsequent actions and lack of direct public statements regarding the funeral and lying in state events were noted by some as a stark contrast to the attendance and emotional tributes from figures like former Presidents Biden and Harris and Governor Walz. While others called for healing and more respectful political engagement, Trump reportedly did not contact Governor Walz and spent the morning of the funeral golfing.
The Family’s Enduring Hope
Melissa, 55, served 11 terms in the Minnesota House, holding the Speaker role for several years before becoming Speaker Emerita under a power-sharing agreement in February. She and Mark are survived by their two adult children, Colin and Sophie.
In the days following the tragedy, Colin and Sophie shared a message for those wishing to honor their parents: engage in simple acts of kindness and joy, like baking, petting a dog, or planting a tree. This message, echoed by Senator Amy Klobuchar, offered a poignant way for people to remember the Hortmans’ spirit and legacy, focusing on their love of life and community amidst unimaginable sorrow. The funeral and preceding events provided a space for collective mourning, reflection, and a shared hope for a more peaceful future.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to former Minnesota Speaker Melissa Hortman?
Former Minnesota House Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark Hortman, were tragically shot and killed in their Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, home on June 14, 2025. Authorities suspect their deaths were part of a politically motivated attack targeting legislators. A suspect, Vance Boelter, has been charged in connection with their deaths and the earlier shooting of State Senator John Hoffman and his wife.
Who attended Melissa Hortman’s funeral service?
The funeral service for Melissa and Mark Hortman, held in Minneapolis, was attended by hundreds, including many prominent political figures. Notable attendees included former President Joe Biden, former Vice President Kamala Harris, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison, and numerous state legislators from both major parties. Friends and family also gathered to pay their respects.
Why was Melissa Hortman’s death significant?
Melissa Hortman was a highly influential figure in Minnesota politics, serving as House Speaker and later Speaker Emerita. Her death, along with her husband’s, in a suspected politically motivated attack, sent shockwaves across the state and nation. It highlighted the increasing threats faced by public officials and prompted calls for unity and reflection on the state of political discourse and violence in the United States. The public mourning events, including her historic lying in state at the Capitol, underscored her significant legacy and the community’s deep sense of loss.
