Northeast South Dakota News

U.S. Senate Majority Leader John Thune addressed the Senate floor concerning recent tragic events in Minnesota. Two state lawmakers and their spouses were victims of shootings over the weekend.

Thune stated, "Mr. President, like all Americans, I was horrified to hear about this weekend’s shootings of two state lawmakers in Minnesota and their spouses." He identified the victims as Melissa Hortman, a member of the Minnesota House of Representatives, and her husband Mark, who were murdered on Saturday. Additionally, John Hoffman, a member of the state Senate, and his wife Yvette sustained serious injuries.

Expressing gratitude towards law enforcement efforts, Thune remarked, "I’m profoundly grateful to law enforcement that the alleged shooter is now in custody, and I look forward to seeing him prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law."

He condemned such acts of violence by stating, "There is no place for this kind of violence in our country. None." Thune concluded with words of support for those affected: "And my prayers this morning are with the Hortmans’ family and loved ones, and for the speedy recovery of John and Yvette Hoffman."