Sen. Mike Lee Faces Backlash Over Tweets About Deadly Minnesota Shootings Targeting Lawmakers

(BuzzReport) – Senator Mike Lee (R-Utah) is facing significant criticism following a series of tweets posted over the weekend that appeared to mock or offer commentary on the deadly shootings in Minnesota that targeted Democratic lawmakers.

The tweets drew swift condemnation online, particularly as they were shared while the suspected killer was reportedly still at large, armed, and carrying a manifesto allegedly targeting “many lawmakers and other officials.”

Among the messages posted by Senator Lee, one tweet suggested the suspect, identified as Vance Boelter, was into “Marxism.” This claim contradicted initial reports suggesting Boelter was a religious conservative who had attended rallies in support of former President Donald Trump. Critics argued Lee was attempting to mischaracterize the suspect’s ideology.

Another tweet that sparked widespread outrage included an image reportedly showing the suspect in a mask knocking on a victim’s door just before one of the shootings, which ultimately left two people dead and two injured. Senator Lee captioned this image, “Nightmare on Waltz Street,” a comment widely interpreted as a mocking reference to Minnesota Governor Tim Walz (D).

Critics responded forcefully to Lee’s social media activity, calling it insensitive and inappropriate given the violence targeting lawmakers and the ongoing manhunt at the time the tweets were posted. The backlash online included numerous calls for Senator Lee’s resignation.

Vance Boelter was arrested by authorities Sunday night, ending the search. As of publication, Senator Lee’s office has not issued a public statement addressing the criticism surrounding the tweets.

Photo Copy of “X” Post from Sen. Mike Lee of Utah