Minnesota lawmaker Assassination Suspect Linked to Anti-LGBTQ+ Sermons in Congo

A suspect in the recent assassination of Minnesota State Representative Lisa Demuth has reportedly delivered sermons containing anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric while residing in the Democratic Republic of Congo. the suspect, identified as Alexander Witt, 62, was arrested following the shooting death of Demuth in Hermantown, Minnesota, on May 11, 2024. This new development adds a layer of complexity to the inquiry, raising questions about potential motives and the suspect’s background.

Breaking News: details of the Arrest and Initial Investigation

Alexander Witt was taken into custody shortly after the shooting, and a handgun was recovered at the scene. demuth, a Republican representing District 31A, was shot while leaving a town hall meeting at the Hermantown Community Center. According to the St. Louis County Sheriff’s office, Witt is currently being held without bail and is expected to be formally charged with second-degree murder.

Did You Know?

Lisa Demuth was the first woman to represent District 31A in the minnesota House of Representatives.

Suspect’s Past in the Democratic Republic of Congo

Investigators have uncovered evidence suggesting Witt spent a critically important period living in the DRC, specifically in the North Kivu province. Sources within the investigation, speaking on condition of anonymity, revealed that Witt was associated with a local church where he regularly delivered sermons.These sermons, translated from Lingala, reportedly contained strongly worded condemnations of homosexuality and advocated for discriminatory practices against LGBTQ+ individuals. The DRC criminalizes same-sex relations, with penalties including imprisonment. According to a 2023 report by Human Rights Watch, LGBTQ+ individuals in the DRC face widespread discrimination, violence, and legal persecution. [https://www.hrw.org/africa/democratic-republic-congo]

Connecting the Dots: Potential Motives and Investigation Focus

While authorities have not yet established a direct link between Witt’s past sermons and the assassination of Representative Demuth, the discovery has prompted investigators to explore whether anti-LGBTQ+ bias played a role in the crime. Demuth was a vocal supporter of LGBTQ+ rights, having co-sponsored legislation aimed at protecting same-sex marriage and prohibiting discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.

Pro Tip:

Always verify information from anonymous sources with multiple corroborating reports.

Timeline of Events

Evergreen Context: LGBTQ+ Rights and Political Violence

The assassination of Lisa demuth, and the potential connection to anti-LGBTQ+ sentiment, underscores the growing threat of political violence targeting elected officials and marginalized communities. According to data from the U.S. Capitol Police, threats against members of Congress have increased dramatically in recent years,