Early Saturday, two Minnesota lawmakers were shot in their homes in what authorities believe was a politically motivated attack by a suspect possibly posing as a law enforcement officer. Governor Tim Walz confirmed the death of former House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, with State Senator John Hoffman and his wife also being shot, Hoffman sustaining injuries. The shootings took place in separate residences in districts north of Minneapolis.

Governor Walz described the incident as a targeted, politically motivated shooting. The attacker's motive and identity are still under investigation, with reports suggesting that the suspect may have pretended to be a police officer to gain entry into the victims' homes. Law enforcement agencies are in the early stages of a complex investigation.

The shootings have sent shockwaves through Minnesota's political community, occurring at a time when elected officials nationwide are facing increased threats and harassment amidst heightened political tensions. John Hoffman, a Democrat serving in the state Senate since 2012, is also a consultant and former vice chair of the Anoka-Hennepin School Board, residing with his wife and daughter.

Melissa Hortman, a Democrat and former House speaker elected in 2004, was a lawyer survived by two children. Recently taking on a leadership role in the state Legislature, she was a victim of the attack alongside her husband. The gun violence prevention organization GIFFORDS, founded by former US Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords, strongly condemned the shootings, emphasizing that an attack on lawmakers is an attack on American democracy itself.

Authorities have urged the public to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity as the manhunt for the suspect behind the deadly assault continues.