I am devastated by the loss of Minnesota State Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, in a horrifying act of violence. Our prayers are with their children and all who loved them, and with State Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, who were also targeted.
Melissa Hortman was an outstanding public servant. She passed legislation that enshrined freedoms and increased opportunity for the people of Minnesota. I saw her impact firsthand when I was with her in Minnesota and will remember her compassion, humor, and sense of service.
Let me be clear: Political violence has no place in our nation. Elected officials must be safe to do their job on behalf of the people. The hate and division that dominate our political discourse must end.
All Senator Padilla wanted was to do his job and get the questions his constituents had answered — instead, he was thrown to the ground and handcuffed.
This is Donald Trump's America, where they attack our freedoms.
We cannot be intimidated or scared by their abuses of power.
If that’s what they do to a United States Senator with a question, imagine what they do to farm workers, day laborers, cooks, and the other nonviolent immigrants they are targeting in California and across the country. Or any American that dares to speak up.
I will not stop fighting to demand accountability on behalf of the people of California.