Overview

• Authorities arrested Vance Boelter, ending the largest manhunt in Minnesota history as he faces charges in the killing of former state House Speaker Melissa Hartman and the wounding of state Sen. John Hoffman.
• A Princeton University study found there were 600 politically motivated threats and attacks last year, a 74% increase over 2022.
• Members of Congress have called for enhanced security briefings and protective measures for lawmakers following the Minnesota shootings.
• Experts warn that escalating political polarization and hostile rhetoric, amplified by social media algorithms, are fueling a rise in targeted violence against public figures.
• Some analysts say pardons granted to January 6 Capitol attack participants have undermined accountability and encouraged further acts of political violence.