Minnesota Sen. Klobuchar Reflects on Legacy of Slain State Lawmaker
Ask students: What is known about the motive behind the shootings? Where did the shootings take place? When did the shootings occur?
Note: The video below aired before the gunman, Vance Boelter, surrendered to authorities and was arrested on Sunday, June 15. To learn more, click here.
If you are short on time, watch the video and complete this See, Think, Wonder activity: What did you notice? What did the story make you think about? What would you want to learn more about?
Discussion Questions
- Who was Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark as described by Sen. Amy Klobuchar? Who are Sen. John Hoffman and his wife Yvette?
- What is known about the motive behind the shootings?
- Where did the shootings take place?
- When did the shootings occur?
- How does Klobuchar humanize politicians' lives and Minnesota communities in the face of political violence?
Focus Questions
- How do you think lawmakers and members of the public should honor Rep. Hortman and her husband Mark?
- How might such tragedies affect how people approach civic engagement?
- Media literacy:
- Why do you think the News Hour chose to interview Sen. Amy Klobuchar?
- Klobuchar discussed how the number of threats on elected officials has increased from 1,600 in 2016 to more than 9,000 in 2024. Do you think Klobluchar's emotional framing of this message helps to combat violence against politicians — members of our communities?
Extension Activity
Think about a similar time when political violence took place. What actions were the most impactful on the community? Do you think such actions would be helpful in response to the tragedies of Rep. Melissa Hortman and Mark Hortman? Can you think of other ways communities have come together to support one another in times of crisis? Did any changes in policy eventually take place?
You may also want to see this lesson, Lesson plan: Civic engagement and how students can get involved
Teaching Through Turbulence: Addressing Political Violence
In a time of rising division and misinformation, understanding political violence is more important than ever. Read the full blog to explore how we can navigate these challenges with clarity, care, and purpose.
Republished with permission from PBS News Hour Classroom.
PBS News Hour Classroom helps teachers and students identify the who, what, where and why-it-matters of the major national and international news stories. The site combines the best of News Hour's reliable, trustworthy news program with lesson plans developed specifically for... See More
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