Minnesota State Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, were honored at their funeral on Saturday, remembered as “extraordinary public servants” victims of political violence. Their wooden caskets were side by side at the Basilica of St. Mary in Minneapolis, where hundreds of political colleagues, friends, and family gathered for the service.
Former President Joe Biden and former Vice President Kamala Harris attended the Catholic funeral Mass but did not address the attendees. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz delivered the eulogy, highlighting Ms. Hortman's impact as a compassionate leader and Mr. Hortman as her devoted supporter. He emphasized their contributions to public service, including improvements to infrastructure and educational programs.
Gov. Walz subtly referenced the June 14 attack that claimed their lives, urging attendees to reflect on the tone and nature of political engagement. He remarked, “Maybe this is a moment when each of us can examine the way we work together… without ever losing sight of our common humanity.” His remarks included both somber reflections and lighthearted memories of the couple.
In his homily, Father Daniel Griffith noted that the Hortmans’ deaths had positioned Minnesota as a focal point for discussions on political violence, akin to the national discourse on racial injustice following the murder of George Floyd in 2020. He called for a strong denunciation of violence and extremism.
The authorities reported that a 57-year-old suspect impersonating a police officer shot the Hortmans at their Brooklyn Park home, the same night he attacked another Democratic lawmaker and his wife. The suspect allegedly had a list of other political targets.
The funeral blended public and private grief, with prayers for peace and unity. President Biden had visited the Capitol rotunda the previous day, where the couple lay in state surrounded by flowers and photographs. An urn containing the ashes of their dog, Gilbert, also killed in the attack, was present.
During the service, Colin Hortman, their son, was visibly emotional as he held his sister’s hand. Governor Walz, one of the pallbearers, expressed his sorrow while accompanying the caskets during the ceremony. The audience included numerous current and former lawmakers from both political parties, as well as other prominent figures.
Former Republican representative Kurt Daudt reflected on the unthinkable nature of the tragedy, emphasizing the need for mutual respect despite political disagreements. Researcher Molly Pederson expressed hope that the Hortmans’ deaths might inspire a reduction in dehumanizing political rhetoric.
Before the caskets were escorted from the church, Colin Hortman quoted the Prayer of St. Francis, a cherished reminder of his mother’s values. He noted, “It never left her side,” highlighting her commitment to promoting love over hatred.