Minnesota Shooting: A Troubling Blow to Our Democracy

On Saturday, June 14, 2025, two Minnesota state legislators, Rep. Melissa Hortman and Sen. John Hoffman, faced a tragic fate, marking another incident in the alarming trend of political violence. A gunman, impersonating a police officer, entered their homes in Champlin and Brooklyn Park, resulting in the deaths of Hortman and her husband, while severely injuring Hoffman and his spouse, Yvette.

This attack is more than a crime; it serves as an assault on democracy itself. Over the past decade, acts of political violence have escalated alarmingly. In 2020, authorities foiled a militia plot aimed at kidnapping Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, leading to the arrest of several individuals. In a separate incident in 2022, Paul Pelosi, the husband of former U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, was assaulted in his home, symbolizing the dangerous state of civic discourse in America.

Recent history has shown that public figures are increasingly at risk. An attempted assassination against former President Donald Trump during a campaign rally in 2023 exemplifies this peril. Such instances of violence against public officials reveal a troubling pattern that continues to worsen.

Our concerns extend beyond individuals in politics. Journalists face brutal threats, and instances of arson at government facilities underscore rising tensions. The chilling reality is that calls for violence have become normalized, eroding public trust in our institutions.

These incidents are not random; they reflect a broader crisis fueled by societal polarization and disinformation. The Anti-Defamation League has highlighted a troubling uptick in politically motivated violent acts, calling for urgent attention to this epidemic.

A leaked memo from the Department of Homeland Security last March warned of a shocking trend: violence is shifting away from public spaces to private homes, where individuals feel most secure. Such developments are alarming for democracy.

When public officials and journalists suffer violence, it undermines democratic principles. We must confront this issue and promote our core values: pluralism, respect, and reverence for differing opinions. These principles must serve as our shield against extremism.

As someone who has dedicated their life to journalism, I know firsthand the pressures faced by public servants. They engage in the essential work of governance, yet often find themselves victims of hostility. It raises an unsettling question: When did we begin to view one another as adversaries rather than fellow human beings?

Journalists have also become targets. While many have experienced threats and harassment, their commitment to uncovering the truth remains steadfast. Our democracy relies on transparent reporting as much as it relies on honest governance.

This pivotal moment in our history demands a renewed commitment from each of us. We must prioritize civility and truth in our discourse, especially in the media. An unwillingness to cater to tribal divides is crucial for fostering a thriving democracy.

The tragic events in Minnesota must not fade into obscurity. They should instead serve as a catalyst for change. We must declare, “Enough is enough.” Our nation’s higher ideals must not be overshadowed by its darkest impulses. Now is the time to stand vigilant.

Alison Bethel is the chief content officer and editor-in-chief of State Affairs, where her team covers legislative developments across 13 states.