Sen. Mike Lee Faces Backlash Over Controversial Posts on Minnesota Lawmaker’s Death
In the aftermath of the tragic assassination of Minnesota Democratic state Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband, Sen. Mike Lee, R-Utah, has come under fire for his responses on X (formerly Twitter). Following intense criticism from Democratic lawmakers, Lee removed his posts that some deemed insensitive and inflammatory.
Lee had described the attack as a consequence of "Marxists" not getting their way and referred to the crime scene with the phrase "Nightmare on Waltz Street," a jab at Minnesota’s Democratic Governor Tim Walz. His remarks elicited a swift response from Minnesota’s Sen. Tina Smith, who confronted Lee to express her dismay over what she called a "cruel statement" at a difficult time. “I wanted him to know how much pain that caused me and the other people in my state," she stated.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and Sen. Amy Klobuchar also voiced their concerns, with Klobuchar noting she had a "good discussion" with Lee, emphasizing her relief that the posts were eventually removed. Still, Smith voiced dissatisfaction, stating she had not received an apology from Lee.
As of Tuesday afternoon, some of Lee’s posts remained, including one asserting that “Marxism kills.” Contrastingly, Lee’s official Senate account struck a more conciliatory tone, calling for unity against violence and prayers for the victims.
The alleged shooter, Vance Boelter, is under scrutiny for his links to attacks on other Democrats and reportedly had a list of over 45 Democratic officials. Lee’s office did not immediately clarify the reasons for his initial statements or their removal, leaving many questions regarding his judgment and timing during this national tragedy.
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