Fact Check: "Melissa Hortman is the first woman to lie in state at Minnesota Capitol."
What We Know
Melissa Hortman, a former Minnesota House Speaker, and her husband Mark are set to lie in state at the Minnesota State Capitol on June 27, 2025. This event marks a significant moment in Minnesota's history, as Melissa Hortman will be the first woman to receive this honor. According to the Minnesota State Portal, Governor Tim Walz confirmed that Hortman is one of fewer than 20 Minnesotans to lie in state at the Capitol, highlighting the rarity and significance of this event (Minnesota's State Portal). Additionally, reports from the Associated Press and ABC News corroborate this claim, stating that she is indeed the first woman to lie in state in Minnesota (AP News, ABC News).
Analysis
The claim that Melissa Hortman is the first woman to lie in state at the Minnesota Capitol is supported by multiple credible sources. The announcement from Governor Walz serves as an official confirmation of this historical event, making it a reliable reference. The Associated Press and ABC News, both reputable news organizations, have reported on the event, reinforcing the accuracy of the claim.
The significance of this event is underscored by the fact that lying in state is a rare honor reserved for distinguished individuals, and the acknowledgment of a woman in this context is particularly noteworthy given the historical underrepresentation of women in such honors. The sources used are credible, with the Minnesota State Portal being an official government site, and both the AP and ABC News being well-established news outlets known for their journalistic standards.
Conclusion
Verdict: True
The claim that Melissa Hortman is the first woman to lie in state at the Minnesota Capitol is accurate. The evidence from multiple reliable sources confirms this historic milestone, marking a significant moment in Minnesota's legislative history.
