ST. PAUL, Minnesota — Amidst a somber atmosphere, former President Joe Biden was among the thousands who paid respects to the late Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, as they lay in state at the Minnesota Capitol. The ceremony marked several firsts: it was the first time a couple and their pet, represented by an urn containing the ashes of their golden retriever Gilbert, were honored together under the storied dome of the Capitol.

Melissa Hortman, a prominent Democrat and the first woman to receive this honor in Minnesota, tragically lost her life in a violent attack on June 14 that also claimed her husband's life and seriously wounded their dog, necessitating euthanasia. The couple's commitment to public service and their untimely deaths have cast a pall over the community they served.

As mourners lined up to pay their respects, the scene inside the rotunda was a poignant reminder of the personal and collective grief shared by the community. Law enforcement officers flanked the caskets and Gilbert’s urn, providing a silent yet formidable presence.

Governor Tim Walz, who described Hortman as his closest political ally, was among the first to visit, followed by an emotional visit from Biden in the afternoon. Demonstrating his faith, Biden made the sign of the cross before kneeling briefly beside the caskets in a private moment of reflection. He then proceeded to engage with those gathered, offering condolences and support.

The public viewing, which was livestreamed to accommodate those unable to attend in person, will be followed by a private funeral set for Saturday morning. Dignitaries including former Vice President Kamala Harris are expected to attend, although they will not deliver eulogies.

In a distressing juxtaposition to the day’s mourning, the accused assailant, Vance Boelter, appeared in court on charges related to what has been described by authorities as a "political assassination." The 57-year-old, facing multiple charges including murder, did not enter a plea. His legal representation highlighted his current conditions in custody, which they argued were affecting his ability to communicate and participate in his defense. The court agreed to some adjustments while the case continues to unfold.

The incident has deeply shaken the local community and political figures nationwide, prompting a reflection on the safety of public servants. Further investigations reveal Boelter may have targeted other Democratic lawmakers, a chilling detail that adds to the complexity of this high-profile case.

As the community begins to heal, the memory of Melissa Hortman’s service and the tragic circumstances of her passing continue to resonate, drawing attention to the risks faced by those in public service and the divisive nature of current political climates.