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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 17, 2025
Joint Statement from Women Winning and Winning Forward
SAINT PAUL, MN –
We are devastated by the politically motivated assassination of Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and the murder of her husband, Mark Hortman. Our grief is compounded by the brutal attack on State Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette. We continue to hold them and their loved ones in our hearts as they fight to recover from this unspeakable act of violence.
This was more than a violent attack on two families. It was an assault on our democratic values, on principled public service, and on the safety and dignity of those who choose to lead. Political violence has no place in Minnesota—or anywhere in this country.
Melissa Hortman was not only a legislative giant and the longest serving woman Speaker of the Minnesota House—she was a steadfast ally of Women Winning. Over the years, she consistently advanced reproductive freedom, supported pro-choice legislation, and stood publicly for the values our organizations represent. Her presence and advocacy empowered countless women to believe in their right to lead.
As we mourn this profound loss, we also recommit ourselves to the work Speaker Hortman believed in so deeply: safeguarding reproductive rights, protecting our democracy, and ensuring that women in public life are not only elected—but protected.
In the coming days, we will gather, we will grieve, and we will stand shoulder-to-shoulder with leaders, families, and communities across Minnesota. We invite you to join us in honoring Speaker Hortman’s legacy, supporting Senator Hoffman’s recovery, and reaffirming our shared commitment to fearless, values-driven leadership.
Our organizations—one focused on advocacy and political change, the other on education and leadership development—will not be deterred. Speaker Hortman wouldn’t have it any other way.
Contact:
Nevada Littlewolf, Executive Director
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (651) 251-0690
About Women Winning (501c4):
Women Winning is a Minnesota-based 501(c)(4) organization dedicated to electing pro-choice women to all levels of public office. With over 40 years of impact, Women Winning provides strategic campaign support, training, and advocacy to build political power for reproductive freedom.
About Winning Forward (501c3):
Winning Forward is the 501(c)(3) sister organization to Women Winning, focused on leadership development, civic engagement, and education for pro-choice women. Through research-driven programs and partnerships, Winning Forward equips the next generation of values-aligned women leaders.
Standing Together,
Team Women Winning and Team Winning Forward
Women Winning is a Minnesota non-profit corporation that is recognized as a tax-exempt 501(c)(4) organization. Contributions are not tax-deductible for income tax purposes.
Women Winning
2233 University Avenue West
Suite 310
Saint Paul, MN 55114
United States
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