MINNEAPOLIS — A somber gathering took place Saturday as over 1,000 mourners, joined by notable figures such as former President Joe Biden and former Vice President Kamala Harris, paid tribute to Melissa Hortman, the former Minnesota House Speaker. Hortman, revered for her legislative impact and compassion, was remembered during a heartfelt funeral service. Tragically, two weeks prior, she fell victim to a violent attack, where a gunman, masquerading as a police officer, fatally shot her and her husband, Mark, leaving deep scars on their community and beyond.
Minnesota’s Governor, Tim Walz, delivered a touching eulogy, portraying Hortman as a dedicated servant of the people and a formidable force in the state Assembly. He remarked, “Melissa Hortman will be remembered as the most consequential speaker in Minnesota history. I get to remember her as a close friend, a mentor, and the most talented legislator I have ever known.” Walz celebrated her seven-year journey in politics, emphasizing her passion for enacting meaningful legislation, stating that the lives of countless Minnesotans were improved because of her devotion.
During the service, both Biden and Harris attended but chose not to speak, sitting alongside the governor. Their shared moments of reflection included joining hands during the Lord’s Prayer and exchanging kind gestures of camaraderie. As they mourned, Biden also visited the Capitol to pay his respects on Friday, where the Hortmans, accompanied by their injured golden retriever Gilbert, were commemorated in the rotunda.
Hortman’s tenure began in 2004, and her pivotal role as House Speaker was marked by liberal policy successes, such as initiatives for free lunches in public schools and expanded rights for women and transgender individuals. Symbolically stepping back this year to serve as speaker emerita, Hortman demonstrated her adeptness in maintaining legislative order amidst a politically split House.
Governor Walz extolled Hortman’s dedication to serving the public, noting her ability to harness cooperation at the negotiation table without causing resentment. He urged those gathered to honor the Hortmans by embodying their spirit of service and appreciation for shared humanity, encouraging a reflection on how politics can be approached with fierceness and empathy.
Leading the service, Rev. Daniel Griffith highlighted the nation’s need for healing, drawing parallels with troubling times as depicted in literary works. Minnesota, he noted, has been at the forefront of racial injustice debates, notably after George Floyd’s tragic death. Now, it grapples with political violence, demanding strong repudiation while also holding the potential for driving positive change.
The service also saw contributions from leading religious figures, with Archbishop Bernard Hebda conveying sympathies to the bereaved Hortman family. A private burial will follow at a later date.
Hortman’s children, Sophie and Colin, attended the service, with Colin recalling their parents’ adherence to the Golden Rule. Emotionally moved, he recited the Prayer of St. Francis, which poignantly encapsulated his mother’s essence and commitment to peace.
Following the ceremony, Governor Walz presented Sophie and Colin with flags that were flown at the Capitol on the day of the fateful incident, symbolizing the state’s recognition and commemoration of their parents.
The search for justice continues as Vance Boelter, the accused shooter, remains in custody following his arrest after an intensive manhunt. He’s appeared briefly in court, with further proceedings scheduled. Authorities have yet to determine a clear motive, although Boelter’s political and religious affiliations have been noted. Prosecutors are working towards securing a grand jury indictment, with the gravity of the case implying severe legal consequences could follow.