The members of the Westchester County Board of Legislators are heartbroken and horrified by the senseless violence that claimed the lives of State Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark, and wounded State Senator John Hoffman and his wife Yvette over the weekend in Minnesota.

Our hearts go out to the victims and their families during this unimaginably difficult time. These targeted attacks against individuals who answered the call to public service represent an assault on the very foundation of our democracy.

We commend law enforcement for their swift action in apprehending the perpetrator and call for justice to be served to the fullest extent of the law. The targeting of elected officials has no place in our society. We must stand united against these acts of hatred and violence.

We will not allow fear to undermine our democratic processes or deter good people from serving their communities.