New Jersey has heightened security measures for public officials following the tragic shooting of Minnesota lawmakers and their spouses. On Saturday (June 14), a gunman killed former Minnesota State House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, and wounded State Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette. This incident has sent shockwaves across the nation.

In response, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy announced increased security and patrols across the state. Governor Murphy emphasized that there is no current credible threat in New Jersey, but the measures are being taken "out of an abundance of caution." He stated, "This terrible act against two dedicated public officials is an attack on our democracy. There is no place for political violence in the United States, and we must all work together to ensure our political differences are settled through debate, not bloodshed" (Yahoo News).

New Jersey Attorney General Matthew Platkin echoed these sentiments, noting that while there is no indication of a threat in New Jersey, the state will remain vigilant in protecting public safety and its officials (NJ.com).

Governor Murphy also recalled a similar incident in 2020 when a gunman targeted U.S. District Court Judge Esther Salas, killing her son and wounding her husband. This led to the enactment of Daniel’s Law, which protects the home addresses of judges and other officials from public disclosure (Insider NJ).

The Minnesota shootings occurred amid a day of political division, with supporters of President Donald Trump gathering in Washington, D.C., for a military parade, while others protested against him nationwide. The search for the perpetrator of the Minnesota attack continues as officials work to bring them to justice.

Steve Andrews