Fact Check: "Minnesota Governor Tim Walz described the shooting as an 'act of targeted political violence' and praised the heroic actions of the Hoffman family."
What We Know
On June 14, 2025, a tragic incident occurred in Minnesota where two state lawmakers were targeted in separate shootings, resulting in the death of Representative Melissa Hortman and serious injuries to State Senator John A. Hoffman and his wife, Yvette. In response to these events, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz described the shootings as "an act of targeted political violence" during a press conference (New York Times, BBC). The suspect, identified as Vance Boelter, was reported to have been impersonating an officer and had a list of potential targets, indicating a premeditated attack on political figures (New York Times, BBC).
In addition to condemning the violence, Governor Walz praised the actions of the Hoffman family, particularly Yvette Hoffman, who reportedly shielded her daughter from gunfire during the attack (BBC, ABC News). This act of bravery has been highlighted in various reports as a significant response to the violent situation.
Analysis
The claim that Governor Tim Walz characterized the shooting as "an act of targeted political violence" is supported by multiple credible sources. The New York Times, BBC, and other major news outlets have consistently reported this statement, confirming its authenticity (New York Times, BBC, Reuters).
Moreover, the acknowledgment of Yvette Hoffman's actions as heroic is corroborated by reports detailing how she protected her daughter during the shooting (BBC, ABC News). The sources used in this fact-check are reputable and well-established news organizations, which enhances the reliability of the information presented.
However, it is essential to note that while the sources are credible, the context surrounding the events is complex and politically charged. The term "political violence" can carry various interpretations, and the motivations behind such actions are often debated in political discourse. Nevertheless, the immediate facts surrounding the shooting and Walz's statements are clear and well-documented.
Conclusion
The claim that Minnesota Governor Tim Walz described the shooting as an "act of targeted political violence" and praised the heroic actions of the Hoffman family is True. The evidence from multiple reliable sources confirms both aspects of the claim, providing a clear account of the governor's statements and the actions taken by the Hoffman family during the tragic events.
Sources
- Political Assassination Rattles Minnesota - The New York Times
- Manhunt after two Minnesota state politicians targeted ... - BBC
- Wife of Minnesota politician shielded daughter from bullets ... - BBC
- Minnesota manhunt underway for suspect in deadly ... - Reuters
- Minnesota lawmaker Melissa Hortman killed, State Sen. John ... - ABC News
- 2 Minn. Democrats targeted in 'politically motivated' attacks; 1 dead - San Francisco Chronicle
- Minnesota Rep. Hortman and husband killed, Sen. ... - CBS News
- Minnesota lawmakers targeted in deadly US 'politically ... - Al Jazeera
