Rep. Brownlee Denounces Political Violence, Calls for Stronger Gun Legislation in Ohio

COLUMBUS - State Rep. Karen Brownlee (D-Symmes Twp) today denounced the recent politically motivated assassinations of former Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, who were fatally shot in their homes on Saturday, June 14th. Another attempted attack also critically injured Minnesota State Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, at their residence. Today, Cincinnati Congressman Greg Landsman announced his name was found as part of evidence collected by the FBI during the search for the suspect in Minnesota accused of murdering and seriously injuring the lawmakers.

“Enough thoughts and prayers. It is time for lawmakers to take action and put an end to gun violence and political violence. The future of our citizens’ safety lies in our hands, but we must have the will and integrity to follow through. We can, and must, pass legislation to ensure that this political violence cannot take hold in Ohio,” said Rep. Brownlee.

The Minnesota House of Representatives has passed a resolution condemning the violence and affirming support for democracy, the rule of law, and free and fair elections. The resolution states, "Passing this resolution is our opportunity to state that now and, in the future, the Minnesota House of Representatives will stand for reason, truth, and democracy."

The Minnesota shooting suspect was arrested Sunday and now faces six federal charges and a state 1st degree murder charge.