Caribbean-American officials react to death of Minnesota lawmaker

Caribbean-American leaders across the United States are speaking out in outrage and sorrow following the shocking, politically motivated killings of Minnesota State Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband, and the shooting of State Senator John Hoffman and his wife.

The suspect, 57-year-old Vance Luther Boelter, allegedly impersonated a police officer before carrying out the fatal attack on June 14. Authorities say Boelter, who operated an evangelical ministry and private security company, left behind a manifesto and a list of additional political targets. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz described the incident as an “assassination.”

In the wake of the tragedy, Haitian-American Mayor Alix Desulme, Ed.D., of North Miami, expressed deep sorrow and called the attack a violation of democratic values.

“I am deeply heartbroken by the horrific and senseless acts of violence that took the lives of Minnesota State Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband, and wounded State Senator John Hoffman and his wife,” said Desulme. “This is not only a tragedy for their families and communities, but an attack on the very principles of democracy and public service. Elected officials answer a calling to serve, not to live in fear.”

Desulme urged unity in condemning political violence and reaffirmed the importance of dialogue over bloodshed.