Joint Statement from Members of the Anoka County Delegation 

SAINT PAUL, Minn. - Monday, members from the bicameral Anoka County Delegation released the following statement in response to the assassination of Melissa and Mark Hortman, along with their dog Gilbert, and the attempted assassination of John, Yvette, and Hope Hoffman. Members of the delegation who signed onto the statement include Sen. Jim Abeler, Sen. Calvin Bahr, Sen. Heather Gustafson, Sen. Michael Kreun, Sen. Mary Kunesh, Sen. Eric Lucero, Rep. Sandra Feist, Rep. Erin Koegel, Rep. Harry Niska, Rep. Matt Norris, Rep. Paul Novotny, Rep. Kari Rehrauer, Rep. Zack Stephenson, and Rep. Nolan West.

Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman represented parts of Anoka County and Senator John Hoffman continues to represent a large portion of Anoka County.  

“We are deeply saddened by the horrific assassinations of Melissa and Mark Hortman and their dog, Gilbert, and the attempted assassinations of John, Yvette, and Hope Hoffman. The events of June 14 are a tragedy that have shaken our state. We are grateful for the swift and courageous action of law enforcement and emergency responders, and we hope for healing and justice for all affected.  

“We are all human beings. No matter our roles or beliefs, we each have people we love, struggles we face, and moments of joy and hardship.  

“Though we come to public service for?different reasons?and from different perspectives, we share a commitment to serve the people of Minnesota. While we will continue to debate and disagree on policy, that must always happen in a spirit of?mutual respect?for each other.?We?must lead by?example;?our differences do not diminish our shared humanity. 

“We reaffirm our commitment to a safe, civil, and peaceful society, with respectful rhetoric and intolerance of violence.?? 

“Violence has no place in our great state or our country.” 

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