Statement from the Community Solidarity and Safety Coalition (CSSC) on the Assassination and Attempted Assassination of Minnesota Lawmakers

The Community Solidarity and Safety Coalition (CSSC) leadership is outraged and heartbroken by the apparent politically motivated assassination of Minnesota Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and her husband, and the attempted assassination of State Senator John Hoffman and his wife. We extend our deepest condolences to their loved ones and communities, and we stand in firm solidarity with all those targeted by violence for their public service.

We are witnessing a deeply disturbing rise in political violence. According to a Brennan Center survey completed in October 2023, representing more than 1,700 officials from all 50 states and include a range of ages, party affiliations, ideologies, genders, sexual orientations, racial and ethnic identities, and religions, state and local officeholders reported increased levels of threats and other abuse. 43% of state legislators experienced threats and 18% of local officeholders experienced threats. 29% of state legislators reported that the seriousness of the incidents has increased.

Political violence is not abstract — it is real, growing, and dangerous.

Chief Renee Hall, CSSC’s Executive Director, issued the following statement:

“I am deeply disturbed and outraged by the recent attempted assassination of Minnesota lawmakers—an act that was not only an attack on individuals, but on the very fabric of our democracy.

Let me be clear: hate-fueled violence has no place in this country. As a law enforcement professional with over two decades of service and a lifelong commitment to public safety and justice, I condemn this heinous act in the strongest possible terms.

When elected officials are targeted for their service or for the communities they represent, it sends a chilling message—not just to them, but to everyone who believes in the promise of free and fair governance. We cannot allow threats, intimidation, or politically motivated violence to shape the direction of this nation.

The rise in violent rhetoric and ideologically driven attacks should alarm every American, regardless of party, race, or region. It is the responsibility of all of us—community leaders, law enforcement, elected officials, and each of us—to unite in rejecting extremism and reinforcing the principles of decency, dialogue, and democratic engagement.

As the Executive Director of CSSC and the National First Vice President of NOBLE, I remain committed to standing in solidarity with those working to create safer, more equitable communities. We will continue to push for stronger policies, cross-sector collaboration, and community-based strategies to combat hate, protect our democracy, and ensure that every public servant can lead without fear.

My prayers are with the victims and their families, and my resolve is stronger than ever. We will not be silent. We will not be deterred.”

CSSC is committed to:

Partnering with local elected officials to assess risks and provide security programs to help them bolster their own safety;
Working across sectors — including law enforcement, faith groups, and civic organizations — to share intelligence, build capacity, and counter extremism;
Creating community-based tools that reduce threats to communities, are easily applicable, and strengthen trust between others.

CSSC is committed to working with all who are equally committed to ensuring that every public servant can do their job without fear.