The suspect in a politically motivated shooting targeting Minnesota lawmakers was previously appointed by Democratic governors to serve on state workforce boards. Vance Boelter, 57, was named to the Workforce Development Council by then-Gov. Mark Dayton in 2016 and received a four-year appointment in 2019 from Gov. Tim Walz to the Workforce Development Board. Although the board was unpaid and included members from both parties, records show Walz personally endorsed Boelter’s appointment, expressing confidence in his integrity. Boelter, however, last registered as a Republican in 2022. In early remarks after the incident, Walz did not mention Boelter’s connection to his administration. Boelter is accused of killing Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband, and wounding State Sen. John Hoffman and his wife. Former President Donald Trump expressed sympathy for the victims, condemning the violence and affirming federal support for the investigation.
Boelter allegedly posed as a police officer, using a vehicle with flashing lights to gain access to Hortman’s home before opening fire. Authorities found a hit list in his car, naming several Democrats, including Rep. Ilhan Omar and Sen. Tina Smith, as well as individuals linked to Planned Parenthood. Police also recovered anti-Trump flyers, suggesting a mix of political motivations. The incident is being investigated as a targeted assassination. Boelter fled the scene after exchanging gunfire with police and remains at large. Investigators believe he used his background in private security and access to police-style gear to carry out the attack.
