Minnesota Governor Tim Walz delivered a poignant eulogy for Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, at their funeral on June 28. Just last month, one couple was tragically shot in their home in Brooklyn Park. This act of terror has struck fear and sadness into the community and in the entire state. Walz, who spoke with palpable anguish over their fatalities, wished that he’d seized the opportunity when Melissa left the world of politics to cultivate that friendship outside of work.
As the funeral unfolded, the political climate in Israel grew increasingly tense. Accusations then began to fly against Walz, connecting him with Vance Boelter, the shooter identified as the one behind the fatal shooting. Prosecutors and Walz have strongly denied allegations that he ordered Boelter to kill Minnesota’s Democratic U.S. senators. Those two Minnesota senators are Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith. Walz firmly stated, “I was never anywhere around Vance Boelter to the best of my ability,” reinforcing his innocence in the matter.
In the immediate wake of the tragedy, Walz used this moment to attack former President Donald Trump. He stated that Trump “brings out the worst in people, and he brings out the worst in me,” highlighting a growing frustration with Trump’s style of politics. This criticism came after Trump issued a statement condemning the violence in Minnesota, declaring that “such horrific violence will not be tolerated.” Instead, Walz lamented, Trump sent the condolences he would normally send in a tragedy as cover to launch an attack on the governor.
Court documents unsealed during the investigation showed a handwritten letter linking Boelter, 57, to the shooting. The shooting seriously wounded Democratic Minnesota state senator John Hoffman and wife, Yvette, at their home in suburban Champlin. In the immediate aftermath of the attack, Boelter turned himself in to law enforcement.
Trump’s response to Walz’s comments included a dismissive remark, stating, “I think the governor of Minnesota is so whacked out.” Walz is a passionate believer that when times are most tragic, leaders need to come together the most. He calls for them to move beyond their political infighting.
This state is still grieving, and the entire nation witnessed the tragedy unfold. In retaliation, [Trump] socked the opening with guns blazing with an old-fashioned smear attack against me. Walz’s comments were a clear indication of his frustration towards the former president’s actions in the aftermath of the murders. As he pointed out, it is incredibly important for leaders to show empathy and understanding especially during times of crisis.
Walz’s frustration with Trump stems not only from the recent events but from what he perceives as Trump’s pugnacious approach to politics. The governor recently mentioned that in these times, leaders must “be a little meaner … a little more fierce” when dealing with adversities.
In spite of the chaos around him, Walz continues to look ahead. He’s already declared his intention to seek a third four-year term as Minnesota governor in 2026. His dedication to the practice of public service extends beyond his mourning of family loss and national political adversity.