India, June 17 -- In a case now described by federal authorities as "a chilling attack on our democracy," former Minnesota pastor Vance Boelter could face the death penalty after being charged with the targeted killings of State House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband.

At a federal court hearing on Monday, Boelter said he could not afford private counsel. According to CNN, he earns around $540 per week from part-time work, though he owns his home and seven vehicles. A public defender was recommended by the judge.

The U.S. Department of Justice, during a press briefing, confirmed that Boelter faces six federal charges-two of which could carry capital punishment. A CBS report added that Boelter had visited the homes of other elected...