Following the fatal shootings of Democratic lawmakers Melissa Hortman and Mark Hortman, and serious injuries to John Hoffman and Yvette Hoffman in Minnesota, some Republicans, including Donald Trump and Elon Musk, have used the incident to mock Democrats or spread conspiracy theories, despite condemnations from other GOP figures. Trump called Governor Tim Walz 'terrible' and 'grossly incompetent,' while Musk shared a tweet alleging the 'far left is murderously violent.' Experts warn such messages may reach a wider audience than official condemnations, contributing to an era of 'violent populism.'
Trump and other Republicans mock Democrats after Minnesota lawmaker killings
United StatesDonald TrumpDemocratsMinnesota
AI Summary
TL;DR: Key points with love ❤️Following the fatal shootings of Democratic lawmakers Melissa Hortman and Mark Hortman, and serious injuries to John Hoffman and Yvette Hoffman in Minnesota, some Republicans, including Donald Trump and Elon Musk, have used the incident to mock Democrats or spread conspiracy theories, despite condemnations from other GOP figures. Trump called Governor Tim Walz 'terrible' and 'grossly incompetent,' while Musk shared a tweet alleging the 'far left is murderously violent.' Experts warn such messages may reach a wider audience than official condemnations, contributing to an era of 'violent populism.'
Trending- 1 Saturday morning: Fatal shootings of Minnesota lawmakers occur.
- 2 Saturday: Trump initially condemns attacks.
- 3 Sunday: Trump strikes a different tone, calling Walz 'terrible.'
- 4 Monday afternoon: Walz's office states Trump has not called.
- 5 Ongoing: Republicans and right-wing figures continue to mock/spread misinformation.
- Increased political polarization.
- Spread of misinformation and conspiracy theories.
- Concerns about 'violent populism' and lack of accountability for peddling disinformation.
What: Some Republicans, including Donald Trump and Elon Musk, mocked Democrats and spread misinformation following the fatal shootings of Minnesota lawmakers.
When: Saturday morning (shootings), Sunday (Trump's different tone), Monday afternoon (Walz's office statement).
Where: Minnesota, United States.
Why: To criticize and mock Democratic opponents, or suggest they instigated the violence, leveraging the tragic event for political gain.
How: Through social media posts (Twitter/X) and public statements, using memes, calling the governor 'terrible,' and sharing conspiracy theories about the 'far left.'