Fact Check: "Melissa Hortman is the first woman to lie in state in Minnesota."
What We Know
Melissa Hortman, a former Minnesota House Speaker, was honored by lying in state at the Minnesota Capitol rotunda, making her the first woman to receive this distinction in the state’s history. This event occurred on June 14, 2025, following the tragic deaths of Hortman and her husband, Mark, during a violent incident at their home. Alongside them, their golden retriever, Gilbert, also lay in state, marking a unique occasion where an animal was included in such honors (source, source). The recognition of Hortman as the first woman to lie in state was confirmed by various news outlets, including NBC News and ABC News (source, source).
Analysis
The claim that Melissa Hortman is the first woman to lie in state in Minnesota is supported by multiple credible sources. The New York Times reported on the event, emphasizing that Hortman is indeed the first woman to receive this honor, which has historically been reserved for prominent figures, typically male (source). NBC News corroborated this information, detailing the circumstances surrounding the honor and the tragic events leading to it (source). ABC News also reported on the significance of this event, highlighting the historical context of Hortman's recognition (source).
The sources used in this analysis are reputable news organizations known for their journalistic standards. The New York Times and NBC News have established credibility in reporting on political matters, while ABC News is a well-respected network with a long history of news coverage. The consistency across these sources strengthens the reliability of the claim.
Conclusion
The claim that "Melissa Hortman is the first woman to lie in state in Minnesota" is True. The evidence from multiple reliable news sources confirms that Hortman received this honor, marking a significant moment in Minnesota's history.
