Donald Trump reacts to Minnesota shootings: ‘This horrific violence will not be tolerated’

Former U.S. President Donald Trump on Saturday said he had been briefed on the “terrible” shooting of two Democratic lawmakers and their partners in Minnesota, calling it a targeted act of political violence.

“I have been briefed on the terrible shooting that took place in Minnesota, which appears to be a targeted attack against state lawmakers,” Trump said in a statement, as reported by AFP. “Such horrific violence will not be tolerated in the United States of America.”

What Happened?

The victims of the attack were Minnesota state Representative Melissa Hortman and state Senator John A. Hoffman. According to authorities, the shootings—carried out at the lawmakers’ separate residences—were politically motivated.

Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, were killed in the attack, while Senator Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, survived and are currently undergoing treatment.

The incidents took place roughly eight miles apart—in Champlin and Brooklyn Park, suburbs north of Minneapolis. The suspected shooter is believed to have impersonated a police officer, prompting a large-scale manhunt, officials said.

“This kind of political violence must never be accepted,” Minnesota Governor Tim Walz said during a press briefing. “Those responsible will be brought to justice.”

Drew Evans, superintendent of the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, said Hoffman and his wife were shot first. About 90 minutes later, Hortman and her husband were attacked. According to Evans, the suspect fled after exchanging gunfire with officers near the Hortmans’ residence.