TRENTON, N.J. — Governor Phil Murphy has directed state authorities to increase security for public officials across New Jersey following the fatal shooting of Minnesota lawmakers and their spouses over the weekend.
The move comes after a politically motivated shooting left former Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark dead, and critically injured State Senator John Hoffman and his wife Yvette. The attack, reportedly carried out by a former appointee of Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, has prompted national concern about the safety of elected officials.
“I am horrified by the targeted shooting of Minnesota lawmakers and their spouses this weekend,” Murphy said in a statement released Saturday. “This terrible act against two dedicated public officials is an attack on our democracy.”
Murphy referenced New Jersey’s own experience with political violence, citing the 2020 shooting at the home of U.S. District Judge Esther Salas that killed her 20-year-old son and wounded her husband.
While no specific or credible threats have been identified in New Jersey, Murphy said Attorney General Matthew Platkin has increased patrols statewide and stepped up protections for elected officials as a precaution.
Increased vigilance follows fatal political attack
“Although there is no known or credible threat in New Jersey, out of an abundance of caution, Attorney General Platkin has stepped up security for public officials and increased patrols statewide,” Murphy said.
The statement also expressed condolences for the victims in Minnesota. “Our thoughts are with the family and loved ones of Melissa and Mark Hortman as they struggle with this loss, and we are praying for a full recovery for John and Yvette Hoffman,” Murphy added.
No additional details have been released regarding specific security enhancements or how long the heightened measures will remain in effect.
The Minnesota shooting suspect remains at large as law enforcement continues its investigation.
Governor Murphy’s security directive follows a deadly attack that underscored ongoing threats to U.S. public servants.
