Biden and Harris Join Mourners at Minnesota Funeral
A Rare Public Appearance
President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris made a rare joint appearance on Saturday, June 29, at a somber funeral in Minneapolis. The two attended the Catholic Mass honoring Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, both k*ll.ed in a politically motivated a**ack.
They sat side by side inside the Basilica of St. Mary, joining more than 1,000 mourners, including lawmakers, grieving families, and members of the public. The couple’s caskets were displayed before the altar, surrounded by white flowers.
United in Grief
Biden wore a black suit and navy tie, while Harris chose a dark coat dress, pinned with a remembrance button. During the Lord’s Prayer, the two leaders held hands—an image that quickly spread on social media. Some observers suggested Harris was supporting Biden physically and emotionally. “She’s holding him up,” one commenter noted. Another added, “She was keeping him steady.”
Honoring a Legacy of Service
Governor Tim Walz, who served as a pallbearer, praised the couple’s life of service. “Melissa Hortman will be remembered as the most consequential speaker in Minnesota history,” he said, referencing the hundreds of bills she passed during her 11 terms in office.
The funeral followed a public memorial held the day before at the Minnesota Capitol Rotunda. Melissa was the first woman in state history to receive that honor. Her and Mark’s dog, Gilbert, who was also k*ll.ed, was commemorated at the memorial.
Kamala Harris and Joe Biden holding hands during the funeral mass, dated June 28, 2025 | Source: YouTube/meidastouch
A Son’s Farewell
Father Dan Griffith described the couple’s hospitality, calling their home the “Hortman Hotel.” Their son, Colin Hortman, closed the service with the Prayer of St. Francis—found in Melissa’s wallet after her d**th.
Tr*gic A**ack Sparks Debate
According to federal prosecutors, 57-year-old Vance Boelter posed as a law enforcement officer and sh*t the couple in their Brooklyn Park home on June 14. Just 90 minutes earlier, Boelter allegedly shot Senator John Hoffman and his wife. Authorities labeled the a**ack politically motivated.
The incident sparked renewed concern about political extremism and safety. Law enforcement called the manhunt that followed the largest in Minnesota’s history.
Private Burial and Federal Charges
After the service, the couple was laid to rest at Lakewood Cemetery. Only close friends and family attended the graveside ceremony, where mourners gathered quietly to say final prayers.
Boelter now faces federal charges, including two counts of m*rder and stalking. Prosecutors may pursue the d**th penalty. A separate state case could result in a life sentence without parole.
Remembered with Respect
Melissa Hortman was 53. Colleagues from both parties remembered her as a dedicated lawmaker, known for her pragmatism, wit, and compassion. As Biden and Harris stood with the grieving community, their presence was seen by many as a gesture of unity and grace in a time of tragedy.
