Minnesota Mourns: Bipartisan Legislative Security Committee Vows Action After Capitol Tragedy

Minnesota Mourns: Bipartisan Legislative Security Committee Vows Action After Capitol Tragedy

In a somber reflection on the recent tragedy that struck at the heart of Minnesota's political community, four members of the Advisory Committee on Capitol Area Security issued a joint statement yesterday, confronting the rawness of their shared grief and the urgency to reinforce security measures. State Representatives Kelly Moller and Jim Nash, along with State Senators Bonnie Westlin and Warren Limmer, represent a bipartisan effort to address the concerns of safety within the State Capitol. Their words, released after the brutal assassination of Melissa and Mark Hortman, were not only an acknowledgment of loss but equally a call to martial resources to prevent further acts of political violence.

Source: Myotus, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia CommonsAs the legislators jointly stated, the death of the Hortmans has compelled them to weigh even more heavily the responsibilities of their positions. The statement, which was made available on the Senate DFL website, read, "We continue to grieve for the unspeakable assassination of Melissa and Mark Hortman and are thinking of their family, friends, and loved ones. We are also sending our thoughts and prayers to Senator Hoffman and his wife Yvette as they recover." The words chosen sought not only to honor the victims but to quickly remind and reassure the public and their colleagues of their dedication to enhance safety protocols.

Amidst the struggle to confront the political terrorism that targets the institutions designed to be by the people, of the people, for the people, the group spoke of the solidarity between legislators and law enforcement in these trying times. "This horrific act of political violence highlights the vital importance of our continued diligence to ensure that members of the legislature, staff, those that work in State Government, and the public are safe within the walls of the State Capitol and around the Capitol complex," the committee members expressed.

Additionally, the legislators conveyed a profound appreciation for the law enforcement officials who worked relentlessly to secure the safety of Capitol members and apprehend the perpetrator. "Lastly, we want to express our profound gratitude to all of the law enforcement partners who worked together around the clock to apprehend the violent perpetrator and protect members. We are grateful for your service more than words can describe."

In a decision that underscores the weight of their mission, and perhaps the precariousness of the moment, the committee members are choosing not to speak directly to the media on matters of Capitol security for the time being. Their silence speaks to a focus on action over words, as the advisory group stands united, behind closed doors, to strategize and implement better means to secure the sanctuary of the political process.

SOURCE: hoodline