Biden Pays Respects to Slain Minnesota Lawmaker and Husband as Thousands Mourn

ST. PAUL, Minnesota – Thousands of mourners, including former President Joe Biden, gathered at the Minnesota State Capitol on Friday to pay their final respects to former Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman, her husband Mark, and their golden retriever Gilbert, who were tragically killed in a politically motivated attack earlier this month. The couple and their dog were accorded the rare honor of lying in state in the Capitol rotunda.

Former President Joe Biden made an unannounced visit, kneeling and crossing himself before the caskets and the urn containing Gilbert's ashes. He then greeted mourners, acknowledging the profound loss felt across the state. Biden's presence underscored the national significance of the event.

The tweet from Paul Jacobs highlighted the contrasting actions, stating, "The old guy with dementia and physical issues didn’t pay his respects to the Hortmans. Joe Biden did instead." This refers to the notable absence of former President Donald Trump from the public ceremony.

Melissa Hortman, a Democrat, was the first woman to lie in state in Minnesota's history, a testament to her two decades of public service and her role as House Speaker. Her husband, Mark, was the first private citizen to receive such an honor, and Gilbert was the first animal. The ceremony drew a diverse crowd, with many waiting for hours to honor the family.

The Hortmans were fatally shot in their Brooklyn Park home on June 14. Authorities have described the incident as part of a broader plan by the accused assailant, Vance Boelter, 57, to target Democratic officials. Boelter also allegedly shot and wounded State Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, on the same day.

The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension led a two-day manhunt that culminated in Boelter's arrest. He faces state and federal charges, including murder. The events have prompted widespread calls for de-escalation of political rhetoric and increased safety measures for public officials.