Fact Check: "At least 11 Wisconsin lawmakers named in shooter's manifesto"
What We Know
Recent reports confirm that 11 Wisconsin lawmakers were indeed named in a manifesto associated with Vance Luther Boelter, the gunman charged with a politically motivated attack in Minnesota. This attack resulted in the deaths of Minnesota state Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband, as well as injuries to another lawmaker and his spouse. According to sources, the manifesto included a list of names of Democratic lawmakers, which has raised significant concerns regarding political violence and safety among elected officials (USA Today, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel).
Wisconsin lawmakers, including U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin and Congressman Mark Pocan, confirmed that they were on this list. Baldwin expressed gratitude for law enforcement's swift action and emphasized the importance of community safety (FOX6 News). The Wisconsin Senate Sergeant at Arms has indicated that security protocols are being reviewed and enhanced in light of these threats (FOX6 News).
Analysis
The claim that at least 11 Wisconsin lawmakers were named in the shooter's manifesto is supported by multiple credible sources. The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel and USA Today both reported that Democratic sources confirmed the existence of this manifesto, which included the names of these lawmakers (USA Today, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel).
The reliability of these sources is bolstered by their established reputations in journalism. Both outlets have extensive experience covering political issues and have been cited in numerous national discussions about political violence and safety. Furthermore, the statements from the lawmakers themselves, including Baldwin and Pocan, provide direct confirmation of their inclusion on the list, adding a layer of authenticity to the claims (FOX6 News, USA Today).
While some reports mention that the shooter did not have a traditional manifesto, the existence of notebooks containing plans and lists of names indicates a premeditated intent targeting specific political figures (FOX6 News). This distinction does not undermine the validity of the claim but rather highlights the evolving nature of how such threats are documented and communicated.
Conclusion
Verdict: True. The claim that at least 11 Wisconsin lawmakers were named in the shooter's manifesto is substantiated by multiple credible sources and direct confirmations from the lawmakers themselves. The ongoing discussions about security measures in Wisconsin further underscore the seriousness of the situation and the potential risks faced by public officials in the current political climate.
