Vance Boelter, a 57-year-old suspect in a politically motivated shooting targeting Minnesota lawmakers, has a notable history of public service, having been appointed by Democratic Governors Mark Dayton and Tim Walz to the state’s Workforce Development Council and Board. Although Boelter’s roles were unpaid and bipartisan, records reveal Walz personally endorsed his appointment, praising his integrity. Interestingly, Boelter last registered as a Republican in 2022. He is now accused of murdering Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband, and injuring State Sen. John Hoffman and his wife in a shocking attack. In the aftermath, Walz did not address Boelter’s previous affiliations with his administration, while former President Donald Trump expressed condolences and affirmed federal assistance for the investigation.

Boelter allegedly posed as a police officer, using a vehicle with flashing lights to gain entry to Hortman’s home before opening fire. Authorities discovered a hit list in his vehicle that included prominent Democrats such as Rep. Ilhan Omar and Sen. Tina Smith, as well as individuals linked to Planned Parenthood. The presence of anti-Trump flyers alongside this list suggests a complex mix of political motivations behind the violence. Investigators believe Boelter utilized his private security background and access to police-style equipment to carry out the attack. After exchanging gunfire with law enforcement, Boelter fled and remains at large. Authorities are treating the incident as a targeted political assassination, sparking bipartisan concern and an intensive manhunt for the fugitive.