Minnesota Governor to Unveil Gun Violence Prevention Plan

Proposal faces challenges in divided state legislature

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Minnesota Governor Tim Walz is set to announce a comprehensive gun violence prevention package on Tuesday, aimed at protecting the health, safety, and wellbeing of Minnesotans. The Democratic governor's proposal could face resistance from Republicans who have previously signaled an unwillingness to consider gun control measures.

Why it matters

Minnesota has suffered several high-profile instances of gun violence over the past year, including the shooting deaths of a state representative and senator, as well as a deadly attack at a Catholic church. The governor's plan is a response to these tragedies and the broader issue of gun violence in the state.

The details

Walz's proposal will include input from legislative leaders, community advocates, and survivors of gun violence. While details have not been released, the plan is expected to focus on measures to prevent gun violence, such as potential gun control legislation. However, the divided nature of the state legislature means the governor's proposal could face significant opposition from Republican lawmakers.

  • Governor Walz will announce the gun violence prevention package on Tuesday, February 24, 2026 at 9 a.m.
  • In June 2025, state Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark were shot and killed at their home.
  • In August 2025, a shooter opened fire at Annunciation Catholic Church during a school mass, killing two children and wounding more than 20 others.

The players

Tim Walz

The Democratic governor of Minnesota who is set to unveil a gun violence prevention plan.

Melissa Hortman

A Minnesota state representative who was shot and killed at her home in June 2025.

John Hoffman

A Minnesota state senator who was wounded in the same shooting incident that killed Rep. Hortman and her husband.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

The governor's proposal will need to be considered and voted on by the divided state legislature, where it may face significant opposition from Republican lawmakers.

The takeaway

Governor Walz's gun violence prevention plan is a response to the state's recent tragedies and the broader issue of gun violence, but its success will depend on navigating the political challenges of a divided legislature.