Gov. Tim Walz's Eulogy for Former MN House Speaker Melissa Hortman

Honoring Melissa Hortman's Legacy

• 💡 Melissa Hortman is remembered as the most consequential speaker in Minnesota history and a talented legislator.
• 🎯 Her public service, alongside her husband Mark, resulted in tangible improvements for Minnesotans, including more kids in prek, fewer in poverty, and improved infrastructure.
• 🔑 Hortman's effectiveness stemmed from her focus on people and her ability to get things done without making others feel defeated.

A Life of Public Service

• 🌱 Her mission was to achieve as much good as possible for as many people as possible, guided by the golden rule and a passion for service.
• 🤝 She saw the humanity in everyone she worked with, maintaining focus on the constituents she served.

Lessons from Tragedy

• 🔍 In the face of inexplicable tragedy, the eulogy suggests a moment to examine how we work together and talk about each other.
• 💖 It calls for a recommitment to engaging in politics and life with the same fierce, enthusiastic, and hearty spirit as Mark and Melissa, while never losing sight of common humanity.