Minnesota Sen. Amy Klobuchar had dinner with former House Speaker Melissa Hortman just hours before Hortman and her husband, Mark, were tragically gunned down in their Brooklyn Park home in what officials are calling a “politically motivated assassination.” The suspect, 57-year-old Vance Boelter, disguised himself as a police officer during the attack and left behind a manifesto naming 70 political figures, including Gov. Tim Walz and Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan. Boelter, who had once been appointed to a state board by Walz, was captured after a two-day manhunt. He is also accused of shooting Sen. John Hoffman and his wife at their home the same evening; both survived. Klobuchar reflected on Hortman’s impactful career, praising her leadership and dedication, and expressed deep concern over the rise in political violence that now threatens public servants and democracy itself.

The incident has spurred calls for increased security for vulnerable politicians. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer announced immediate steps to bolster protection for Klobuchar and fellow Minnesota Senator Tina Smith. The assassination highlights the alarming escalation in threats against elected officials, which Klobuchar noted have skyrocketed from 1,700 in 2016 to over 9,000 last year. The violence and intimidation risks deterring committed public servants from running for office, posing a threat to democratic institutions. This tragic event underscores the urgent need to address political extremism and ensure the safety of those serving in public roles.