Dear John,

I’m reaching out with a heavy heart to share a deeply personal loss and a moment of reflection we recently observed in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives.

Earlier this week, our chamber paused for a moment of silence in honor of my friend and colleague, Minnesota House Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman, and her husband, Mark, who were tragically assassinated in their home over the weekend.

I had the privilege of knowing Speaker Hortman personally. She was a fierce advocate, a trailblazer, and a compassionate leader whose presence lifted everyone around her. This shocking act of violence is more than a personal loss; it is an attack on public service and the values we all fight for every day.

As I said to my colleagues, though many of us didn’t know Speaker Hortman personally, I did, and I can tell you that we lost a bright light. And we should all feel that loss because her commitment to democracy and her love for her state mirror the reasons why we serve here in Pennsylvania.

Now more than ever, we must reject political violence in all forms and reaffirm our belief in public service grounded in justice, safety, and respect. 

Speaker Hortman led with grace and determination. Let us honor her legacy by continuing to lead with courage and compassion in our own communities.

Thank you for standing with us — for democracy, for decency, and for each other.

With blessings and in service,

Rep. Joanna E. McClinton
Speaker of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives