Hugo Woman Accused of Threatening State Lawmakers

Protective orders filed after alleged voicemail threats to Republican representatives

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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Two protective orders have been filed against a Hugo, Minnesota woman after she allegedly left multiple threatening voicemails for two Republican state representatives, including the Speaker of the House Lisa Demuth, regarding various political issues.

Why it matters

Threats against elected officials, even from private citizens, are taken very seriously as they can undermine the democratic process and create an atmosphere of fear and intimidation. This incident highlights the growing political polarization and tensions in the state.

The details

According to authorities, the Hugo woman left voicemails for Speaker Demuth and another Republican state representative on an almost daily basis, making threats related to several different current political issues. The nature and frequency of the alleged threats prompted the filing of protective orders against the woman.

  • The alleged threatening voicemails were left over an unspecified period of time, described as 'almost daily'.
  • The protective orders were filed on March 4, 2026.

The players

Lisa Demuth

The Speaker of the Minnesota House of Representatives and a Republican gubernatorial candidate.

Hugo woman

A resident of Hugo, Minnesota who is accused of leaving threatening voicemails for state representatives.

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What they’re saying

“We must not tolerate threats against our elected officials, as they undermine the democratic process and create an atmosphere of fear.”

— Lisa Demuth, Speaker of the Minnesota House of Representatives

What’s next

The protective orders will be reviewed by a judge to determine if they should be extended or made permanent.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the growing political tensions and the need for elected officials and citizens to engage in civil discourse, even on divisive issues, without resorting to threats or intimidation.