• Former House Speaker Melissa Hortman was fatally shot in a politically motivated attack.
• Over 1,000 mourners, including President Biden and VP Harris, attended her funeral.
• Gov. Tim Walz praised Hortman as a significant legislative leader in Minnesota's history.
• The accused assailant remains in custody and faces potential federal charges.
• Hortman's legacy includes significant advances in social policies during her tenure.

On Saturday, a large memorial service was held for former Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman, who, along with her husband Mark, was tragically killed two weeks prior in an incident described as an assassination by federal prosecutors. The attack, which also left Democratic state Senator John Hoffman and his wife critically injured, occurred when a suspect impersonated a police officer. Former President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris were among more than 1,000 attendees at the Basilica of Saint Mary, demonstrating the profound impact Hortman had in her community and beyond, according to latimes, huffpost, and indiatimes.

Governor Tim Walz commemorated Hortman's legacy, stating, "Melissa Hortman will be remembered as the most consequential speaker in Minnesota history," expressing the belief that her influence has improved the lives of countless Minnesotans. He emphasized her approachability and effectiveness in legislation, highlighting her capacity to navigate difficult negotiations without causing others to feel marginalized. This respect was echoed by former and current legislators who attended, marking her bipartisan appeal, according to latimes, huffpost, and indiatimes.

The funeral followed a public viewing where more than 7,500 people paid their respects as Hortman, her husband, and their golden retriever, Gilbert, lay in state in the Minnesota Capitol Rotunda. Gilbert was injured during the shooting and later had to be euthanized, adding to the tragedy of the events, as shared by latimes and huffpost.

The alleged shooter, identified as 57-year-old Vance Boelter, has been charged but has not entered a plea and remains in custody following what state officials described as the most extensive manhunt in Minnesota's history. While prosecutors have not publicly discussed a motive, they are pursuing federal charges that may lead to the death penalty, indicating the severity of the situation and its implications for public safety, according to latimes, huffpost, and indiatimes.