Democratic Women’s Caucus Chair Condemns Attacks on Women; Calls on Administration to Denounce Violence

WASHINGTON, D.C. —Today, Tuesday, June 17, Democratic Women’s Caucus Chair Teresa Leger Fernández (NM-03) released the following statement following the assassination of Minnesota Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman, the shooting of State Senator John Hoffman, and the news that dozens of Democratic Women’s Caucus members and other elected officials were on a target list created by the suspect of the attacks.

“Political violence of any kind has no place in our democracy. The targeted attacks in Minnesota this weekend were absolutely heartbreaking and horrifying. We stand in solidarity with all those affected and keep their loved ones in our hearts. 

It is shocking to learn that the suspect of Saturday’s shooting had the names of many additional elected officials, including several Democratic Women’s Caucus Members, on a target list. In 2025, women in elected office and across our communities already face far too many threats to our safety—it is unacceptable that we should be targeted for doing our jobs and standing up for our constituents. We call on the administration to join us in denouncing this surge in violence and to protect, not threaten, peaceful civic engagement. We will continue our work for women and families unafraid, in Congress and in our communities.

We are deeply grateful for the work of state, local, and Capitol Police that keep our Members, staff, and constituents safe. Lawmakers and civic engagement must be protected, not threatened.”

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