Sen. John Hoffman returns to Minnesota Senate, recounts surviving attack and urges unity

ST. PAUL, Minn. — Sen. John Hoffman returned to the Minnesota Senate chamber on Feb. 17 and recounted surviving an attempted assassination, thanking emergency responders and colleagues and urging lawmakers to put politics aside.

"When you survive an attempted assassination, you look at the world differently," Hoffman told the chamber, describing the ordeal and naming family members in the gallery. He said his wife, Yvette, "was shot 8 times," and that he "sustained 9 bullet wounds," and credited his daughter Hope for calling 911 and helping save lives that night.

Hoffman thanked first responders, local police departments, medical teams at Mercy Hospital and Minnesota State Troopers for their care and protection during recovery. "What remained was simple human decency," he said, praising outreach from members of both parties during his recuperation.

Hoffman framed his return as a recommitment to public service and appealed for bipartisan civility. "In moments like this, politics must fade and humanity must take over," he said, urging senators to "govern with humility" and to focus on protecting the vulnerable and pursuing truth and fairness.

Other members used opening day remarks to cite recent losses in state government. Senator Johnson referenced "the tragic murder of former speaker Melissa" and the passing of Bruce Anderson; the chamber also welcomed newly sworn senators.

Senator Murphy praised Hoffman's recovery and said colleagues from both caucuses had offered support during his rehabilitation. The senate recessed and later adjourned for the day; lawmakers will reconvene Feb. 19 at 11 a.m.

The remarks were delivered during opening-day formalities and did not include any new legislative proposals. Hoffman’s personal account and appeals for civility were the central substantive elements of the session.