Overview

• House Majority Whip Tom Emmer called for an immediate repeal of Minnesota’s 2023 trans-refuge statute, arguing it worsens mental health problems tied to the suspect.
• Authorities identified the shooter as 23-year-old Robin Westman, who killed two students and injured at least 17 before dying by suicide during a school Mass at Annunciation Catholic Church, with records showing a prior name change and a 2023 driver’s license listing a female identity.
• FBI Director Kash Patel characterized the attack as domestic terrorism motivated by hate, with investigators noting hostile writings and phrases scrawled on firearms.
• Minneapolis leaders and public figures urged against vilifying transgender people, and data cited in coverage indicate transgender suspects account for a very small share of mass shootings.
• State lawmakers and analysts say any bid to rescind the law is unlikely to advance, with Democrats holding narrow control and potential conflicts with Minnesota’s Human Rights Act complicating efforts.