BROOKLYN PARK, Minn. (AP) — The assassination of conservative influencer Charlie Kirk has sent shockwaves through the nation, but its effects are particularly pronounced in Brooklyn Park, Minnesota. Here, two candidates are canvassing door-to-door for a legislative seat vacated following the tragic murder of former state lawmaker Rep. Melissa Hortman and her spouse during a politically motivated home invasion.
The atmosphere in Brooklyn Park is tense as residents prepare to vote in a special election, their community still reeling from recent violence. Hortman, who represented the area since 2005 and served as House speaker, was fatally shot alongside her husband and dog in June, yet the haunting repercussions of violence did not stop there.
Vance Boelter, the accused perpetrator of the Hortman family murders, also faces additional charges for attempting to murder another lawmaker, highlighting the ongoing threats faced by those in public service.
Candidates Address Community Fears
Ruth Bittner, the Republican candidate vying for Hortman’s seat, expressed concern about the palpable fear among voters in the area: “We are in very, very scary times, and we definitely need to get out of this trajectory that we’re on.” Despite initially hesitating to pursue public office due to the rising political violence exemplified by Kirk’s assassination at a Utah event, she feels compelled to move forward and embrace democratic processes.
“There’s no way to solve this problem if we shrink back in fear,” Bittner stated emphatically.
The electoral tension coincides with events that have further traumatized the community, including a shooting at a Minneapolis church that killed two schoolchildren and injured many others. Both incidents have served to unify sentiments against political violence and propose a call for respect in democratic dialogues.
Xp Lee, the Democratic candidate and former Brooklyn Park City Council member, acknowledged the shift in the political atmosphere, noting the violent events have been front of mind for constituents. Lee, who considered Horton a personal neighbor and mentor, aims to honor her legacy by advocating for change in the present climate of fear.
Outcry Against Political Violence
The public outrage over Kirk's assassination has led to widespread condemnation from leaders across the political spectrum. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz remarked, “In America, we don’t settle our differences with violence or at gunpoint.” This sentiment is echoed by lawmakers like John Hoffman, who, along with his family, denounced such violence as detrimental to democracy.
As the special election looms, candidates are adamant about addressing community fears and bringing a message of safety and unity. Amid discussions of reforming gun laws and community safety measures, the political climate remains charged, and discontent over the tragedies may challenge conventional perceptions of political engagement.
