In Minnesota, a deranged gunman broke into a legislator’s house and shot her and her husband, killing both of them. He also killed their dog.

The alleged gunman broke into a state senator’s house, shooting him. Somehow, the senator and his wife survived.

The suspect, 57-year-old Vance Boelter, grew up in Sleepy Eye, Minnesota. Residents described in various media reports that it was the type of community where locals don’t lock their doors and look out for each other.

Boelter, who worked in the restaurant business around Minneapolis, reportedly developed a list of democratic lawmakers. It was very detailed and stretched as far as Ohio Congressman Greg Landsman.

Police found an AK-47 assault weapon and other firearms in his possession after obtaining a search warrant. He had a manifesto of those he intended to kill. Most of his writings were angered toward abortion advocates.

It doesn’t help matters when President Donald Trump a few weeks ago, speaking with reporters, called the opposition “the scum of the earth.” Trump himself survived two assassination attempts in the last two years.

Political violence has been geared toward both parties. In recent years, Louisiana Republican Congressman Steve Scalise was shot while preparing for a congressional baseball game. Kentucky Sen. Rand Paul was attacked while cutting his grass.

Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s home was burglarized and her husband was beaten with a hammer.

We see the anger and, in many cases, hate on the local level on social media, but not to the extent of actual violence.

Clearly, hate comments breed those who may have a troubled mind. Certainly,  First Amendment rights must be protected, but folks in America need to cool the rhetoric. It can start with the man leading the country.

— From Tribune News Service