Joe Biden Visits Hoffmans in Hospital After Paying Respects to Hortmans: A Heartfelt Gesture from the Former President

ST. PAUL, Minn. (FOX 9) – Former President Joe Biden joined many others to honor Minnesota Rep. Melissa Hortman, her husband Mark, and their golden retriever Gilbert, who were tragically killed. The couple and their dog were lying in state at the Capitol ahead of their funeral.

On Friday, the Capitol was filled with grief as hundreds, including Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, expressed their condolences. This tragic event took place nearly two weeks ago, leaving deep wounds in the community.

Biden arrived at about 4:20 p.m. He walked quietly to the memorial and took a moment at the caskets. He crossed himself, reflecting on the loss before moving on. As he left, he spoke to three women who were visibly emotional.

Before visiting the memorial, Biden stopped by the hospital to see State Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette. Both were injured in the same shooting incident; John was shot nine times, and Yvette, eight. Thankfully, John is recovering well. Yvette shared that he’s alert and even giving the staff a hard time, adding a note of humor during a tough situation.

This incident highlights ongoing concerns about gun violence in America. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, gun-related deaths have significantly increased in recent years, showing a 30% rise from 2019 to 2021. This stark statistic emphasizes the urgent need for action.

The entire community feels this loss deeply. It serves as a reminder of the personal stories behind statistics. The grief that families experience after such tragedies often spreads through communities, igniting discussions on safety and gun laws. Social media has reflected this sentiment, with many users expressing their shock and sadness, advocating for stronger legislation to prevent future tragedies.

Governor Walz and his wife, Gwen, were among the first to pay their respects at the memorial. They walked through the rotunda together, displaying the unity and support that is crucial during such trying times.

As we reflect on this tragic event, it’s clear that the impact goes far beyond one family. It resonates throughout the community, calling for change and healing.

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