Fact Check: "Governor Tim Walz referred to the shooting of Rep. Melissa Hortman as a 'political assassination' and ordered flags to fly at half staff in her honor."
What We Know
On June 14, 2025, following the tragic shooting of Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband, Governor Tim Walz of Minnesota made a statement acknowledging the incident as a "political assassination." In his remarks, he expressed sorrow over the loss of Hortman, describing her as a "great leader" and a "formidable public servant" who dedicated her life to improving the state of Minnesota (Governor Tim Walz Statement on Targeted Political Violence). Additionally, he ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff in her honor, reinforcing the gravity of the situation and the impact of the violence on the community (Political Assassination Rattles Minnesota - The New York Times).
Analysis
The claim that Governor Walz referred to the shooting as a "political assassination" is substantiated by multiple sources. In his statement, he explicitly labeled the violence as such, emphasizing the targeted nature of the attack against lawmakers (NPR). This characterization aligns with broader concerns about political violence in the United States, particularly in the context of increasing threats against public officials.
Moreover, the action of ordering flags to fly at half-staff is a significant gesture that reflects the state's mourning and recognition of the seriousness of the crime. This action was reported by various news outlets, including CBS News and CNN, confirming that Governor Walz indeed took this step to honor Hortman (CBS News, CNN).
The sources used in this analysis are credible and well-established. The New York Times, NPR, and CBS News are reputable media organizations known for their journalistic integrity. They provide detailed accounts of the events and the governor's responses, which further supports the accuracy of the claim.
Conclusion
Verdict: True. The evidence clearly indicates that Governor Tim Walz did refer to the shooting of Rep. Melissa Hortman as a "political assassination" and ordered flags to fly at half-staff in her honor. The statements made by the governor and the subsequent actions taken are well-documented and corroborated by multiple reliable sources.
Sources
- Governor Tim Walz Statement on Targeted Political Violence
- Political Assassination Rattles Minnesota - The New York Times
- Suspect in Minnesota political shootings had 'fantasy' ...
- Gov. Walz orders flags at half-staff after Rep. Melissa Hortman's ...
- June 14, 2025 - News on the manhunt for gunman who shot Minnesota ...
