A man in Minnesota has pleaded guilty to murdering state House Speaker Melissa Hortman (D) and her husband Mark Hortman. The attack occurred when the suspect, disguised as a police officer, knocked on the victims' door.
According to Al Jazeera, Vance Boelter, 58, pleaded guilty to murder on June 19, 2025, local time, in exchange for federal prosecutors agreeing not to seek the death penalty. Boelter accepted two consecutive life sentences plus 40 years. However, the deal does not apply to state charges.
Speaking to reporters, U.S. Attorney Daniel N. Rosen said: “Political violence is a scourge plaguing America. Anyone contemplating political violence at any level should take note: The Justice Department will prosecute and secure the longest possible prison sentences for your crimes.”
The court hearing was emotional, with sobs from the Hortman family. In addition, Boelter is accused of targeting state Senator John Hoffman and his wife Yvette, both of whom were wounded in the attack.
Investigators said Boelter wore tactical gear and drove a police-style SUV with flashing lights to the homes of several lawmakers. At one house, he knocked but no one answered. At another, he fled when a real police officer approached, mistaking him for a colleague. Officers later found in his vehicle a list of names of 45 other state officials and lawmakers.
In court, Boelter answered “yes” briefly to questions from his lawyer, including whether he pointed a gun at Melissa Hortman’s head and pulled the trigger.
The case has sent shockwaves across the U.S., intensifying fears of political violence targeting prominent figures. It also prompted the largest manhunt in Minnesota history. Boelter was arrested near his home in Green Isle, about an hour’s drive from Minneapolis, a day after the shooting.
