Who was Melissa Hortman? Biography, Wiki
Melissa Hortman stood at the forefront of Minnesota politics for two decades. As Speaker of the Minnesota House (2019–2025), she championed progressive change while navigating the state’s complex political landscape. Her life, tragically cut short alongside her husband in a June 2025 attack, left an indelible mark on her community.
Melissa Hortman Age
Born on May 27, 1970, in Fridley, MN, the age of Melissa Hortman was 55 years old at the time of her death on June 14, 2025.
Short Bio & Some Quick Facts
Complete Real Name | Melissa Anne Hortman (née Haluptzok) |
Famous Name | Melissa Hortman |
DOB | May 27, 1970 |
Date of Death | June 14, 2025 |
Age (at the time of death) | 55 years |
Zodiac Sign | Gemini |
Place of Birth | Fridley, Minnesota, USA |
Parents | Update Soon |
Sibling | Lieza Jean Haluptzok (Sister) |
Education | MPA (2018) |
Institute | Harvard Kennedy School |
Occupation | Speaker, MN House Representative |
District | 34B (Brooklyn Park/Champlin) |
Party | Minnesota Democratic–Farmer–Labor (DFL) |
Relationship Status | Married |
Husband | Mark Hortman |
Children | Colin, Sophie |
Religion | Catholic |
Nationality | American |
Ethnicity | White (Caucasian) |
Height | 5 feet 5 inches |
Weight | Update Soon |
Eye Color | Blue |
Hair Color | Blonde |
Salary (As of 2025) | Approximately $78,000 Per Year |
Net Worth (As of 2025) | In Between $1–5 million |
Category | Biography |
Education
Melissa Hortman education spanned elite institutions:
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Blaine High School (1988)
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Boston University (B.A. Political Science/Philosophia, magna cum laude, 1991)
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University of Minnesota Law School (J.D., cum laude, 1995)
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Harvard Kennedy School (Master’s in Public Administration, 2018)
Family
The family background of Melissa Hortman ran deep in Minnesota. She grew up in Anoka County with siblings, including sister Lieza Jean Haluptzok. Her parents’ values shaped her commitment to public service.
Husband
Melissa Hortman husband was Mark Hortman. Married for 31 years, Mark worked as an electronics program manager. The couple attended St. Timothy Catholic Church and raised two children in Brooklyn Park.
Children
Melissa Hortman children were Colin and Sophie. She balanced legislative duties with coaching softball, leading Girl Scout troops, and volunteering at Monroe Elementary.
Career
Rep Melissa Hortman served 11 terms in the Minnesota House (2004–2025):
Role | Years | Key Achievements |
---|---|---|
Energy Committee Chair | 2013–2014 | Solar energy standards, community solar laws |
Minority Leader | 2017–2019 | Unified DFL strategy |
Speaker of the House | 2019–2025 | Paid family leave, police reform, 2025 power-sharing agreement |
Excited to be in Moorhead with @RepKeeler for Indigenous Peoples’ Day! I’m so grateful to Rep. Keeler & the Native American Legislative Caucus for their leadership and work to establish this day as a state holiday. pic.twitter.com/n4PZn68e07
— Melissa Hortman (@melissahortman) October 9, 2023
Her career began with internships for Senators Al Gore and John Kerry, followed by legal work in Hennepin County.
Religion
The religion of Melissa Hortman was Catholic. She taught Sunday school at St. Timothy Church in Blaine, weaving faith into community service.
Ethnicity and Nationality
Melissa Hortman ethnicity was White/Caucasian. Her nationality was American, with lifelong ties to Minnesota.
Height and Weight
How tall was Melissa Hortman? Public appearances suggest approximately 5’5” (165 cm / 1.65 m). Her weight remains private per family wishes.
Salary
As Speaker (2025), her compensation included:
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Base legislative salary: $51,750/year
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Leadership stipend: $26,250/year
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Total state compensation: ~$78,000/year
Net Worth
Melissa Hortman net worth was estimated at $1–5 million from legal work, investments, and her husband’s career.
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Social Media Handles
All the mentioned below are the social media handles of the Minnesota House Rep. Melissa Hortman:
Homepage | www.theeducationisthub.com |
www.facebook.com/repmelissahortman | |
www.x.com/melissahortman | |
www.instagram.com/melissahortman |

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