The Rhode Island Senate has introduced a resolution condemning political violence and expressing sympathy to the families of the Honorable Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and Honorable State Senator John Hoffman, who were victims of a tragic, politically motivated shooting on June 14th. The resolution emphasizes the foundational American principles of political and religious freedom, highlighting that differences should be resolved through debate rather than violence. It characterizes the act of violence against the Hortman and Hoffman families as cowardly and unacceptable, reinforcing the need for tolerance and respectful discourse in a democratic society.

In light of this event, the resolution expresses outrage and extends condolences to the families affected, particularly the children of the Hortman and Hoffman families, as well as the people of Minnesota. The Senate calls for the condemnation of such acts of violence in the strongest terms and directs the Secretary of State to send certified copies of the resolution to Minnesota's Governor Tim Walz and Speaker of the House Lisa Demuth, signifying solidarity and support from Rhode Island.

Introduced by Senator Valarie J. Lawson on June 17, the resolution has been recommended for immediate consideration.