We are heartbroken and devastated by the horrific acts of politically targeted violence this past weekend that resulted in the assassination of Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark Hortman, and attempted assassination of Senator John Hoffman and his wife Yvette Hoffman.
As a public advocacy organization, the integrity of our democratic process and society is at the core of everything we do. This includes, centrally, the ability of public officials to operate and act in the public interest free of duress or threats of violence. Fresh Energy unequivocally condemns this act, and we stand in solidarity with all who continue to answer the call to public service.
It would be impossible to overstate the impact that Melissa had on clean energy and climate policy in Minnesota. Melissa served as Speaker of the Minnesota House for six years and in 2023 she played an integral role in securing the most impactful legislative session for climate in our state’s history, highlighted by Minnesota’s landmark 100% by 2040 clean energy law and an unprecedented set of investments in our clean energy future. Prior to becoming the leader of her caucus, Melissa chaired the House Energy Committee. From that platform, she shepherded Minnesota’s first major solar energy policy bill, effectively transforming a nascent industry into a pillar of our clean energy transition that continues to grow today.
Members of Fresh Energy’s staff and board, past and present, had the great privilege of working closely alongside Melissa since her first election in 2004. We will miss her brilliant strategic mind and her wonderfully biting sense of humor. As a leader, Melissa set the standard for an inclusive approach to policymaking in Minnesota and served as a role model for many making their career in public service. We remain forever grateful for her partnership and her unequaled contributions to a better, cleaner energy future for Minnesota.
We are heartened by news reports that Sen. John Hoffman and Yvette Hoffman are recovering from their injuries and we wish them peace and fast healing. Our thoughts will continue to be with the Hortman and Hoffman families, and with all who have been affected by this heinous act of violence.
Signed,
Fresh Energy Staff and Board of Directors
