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2mo ago

Minnesota Legislature Debates Security, Tribute and Civility Reforms After Political Attack

The proposals reflect mounting concerns over threats to public servants, driving a push for practical protections alongside a symbolic tribute to the slain speaker emerita

Outside the Minnesota State Capitol in St. Paul, Minnesota, on June 15, 2025.
Pictures of Mark and Melissa Hortman were on display inside the sanctuary at the Basilica of St. Mary's during funeral services for the slain Democratic lawmaker and her husband, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, June 28, 2025.

Overview

  • Lawmakers have convened hearings on protectionist measures including enhanced security at the State Capitol and shielding legislators’ home addresses after the June 14 attack
  • Symbolic proposals under review range from renaming the State Office Building for Melissa Hortman to installing a statue on Capitol grounds
  • Remedial reforms being discussed include overhauling the Legislature’s code of conduct, creating a civility task force and hosting citizen summits on respectful political discourse
  • Critics warn that despite the spike in threats, political leaders risk moving on too quickly without implementing significant safety or civility measures
  • U.S. Capitol Police data showed record threats against members of Congress in 2024, reflecting a broader national trend of rising and normalized political violence