Minneapolis School Shooter Linked to Former GOP Rep. Who Advocated for ‘Trans’ Youth

Bob Heleringer, a former Republican legislator from Kentucky, is publicly reacting to the tragic shooting at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis on Wednesday, carried out by his 23-year-old nephew, Robert “Robin” Westman. 

The attack left two children dead and 17 others injured during a morning Mass attended by students and parishioners. 

According to authorities, Westman fired through a church window while children and adults gathered inside, prompting survivors to hide beneath their classmates to escape the gunfire. 

Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara called the incident “a deliberate act of violence,” while FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed it is being investigated as a potential domestic terrorism act and a hate crime targeting Catholics.

Heleringer, who represented parts of Louisville in the Kentucky House of Representatives from 1980 to 2003, described his shock and sorrow over the attack. 

“I wish he had shot me instead of innocent schoolchildren,” Heleringer told the Associated Press. 

He said he is praying for his sister, her children and all the victims of the shooting. 

Heleringer added that he had little contact with Westman and last saw him at a family wedding several years ago, per Trending Politics.

Adding to the personal dimension, Westman’s mother reportedly worked at the Catholic K-8 school connected to Annunciation Church. 

Authorities are reviewing Westman’s online activity, which reportedly included posts expressing anti-Trump and anti-religious sentiments. 

No official motive has been disclosed.

Heleringer’s legislative record and public statements have drawn renewed attention. 

During his time in office, he supported measures restricting “gender-affirming care” for minors and questioned whether Republicans were waging legislative battles “just to wage an all-out war against defenseless transgender children.” 

In 2023, he reinforced this stance in an op-ed for the Courier-Journal, publicly condemning the state GOP for pursuing policies he described as a “war against LGBTQ people,” showing his willingness to speak out on contentious issues even within his own party. 

Beyond his legislative work, Heleringer partnered with the Fairness Campaign, a Kentucky-based LGBTQ rights group, and publicly condemned a bill that foreshadowed SB 150, calling it among the worst he had encountered in decades, according to the Lexington Herald-Leader.

His family connection to the tragedy has reignited national discussions about school safety, mental health and the intersection of public policy and personal responsibility. 

Other Republican lawmakers voiced concern following the attack. 

Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY) criticized Minnesota’s law banning firearms on school grounds, saying, “Deranged shooters choose schools because they know their victims are vulnerable. This one even admitted it.” 

Lawmakers continue to advocate for stronger security and mental health resources to prevent similar tragedies. 

The incident has sparked nationwide debate about the safety of schools and houses of worship. 

Families of the victims, parishioners and school staff are now coping with the emotional aftermath, while authorities focus on securing the area and assisting survivors. 

Heleringer’s connection underscores how such tragedies impact not just victims but extended families and public figures. 

As investigations continue in Minneapolis, this event raises critical questions about violence, mental health, and public policy’s role in protecting communities. 

Heleringer’s statements highlight the personal and political complexities that arise when national tragedies intersect with family and public service.

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