Trump Backs Walz on 2020 Protests

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz is under renewed criticism for his handling of the protests that erupted following the police murder of George Floyd in May 2020. As unrest escalated in Minneapolis, State Senator Warren Limmer, a Republican, accused Walz of freezing under pressure and failing to deploy the Minnesota National Guard in a timely manner. Limmer's comments come as Walz has been named as Vice President Kamala Harris's running mate for the 2024 election, prompting a reevaluation of his actions during the crisis. In the immediate aftermath of Floyd's death, Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey requested the National Guard's deployment. However, Walz did not activate the Guard until May 28, three days later, coinciding with significant violence, including the burning of the Minneapolis Police Department's Third Precinct. Walz defended his decisions, stating that he acted in good faith amid unprecedented circumstances, and emphasized that he responded to requests from local mayors. Former President Donald Trump, who initially praised Walz's response during a June 2020 call, has since seen his comments leveraged by GOP critics. Trump's campaign clarified that his compliments were based on Walz's actions taken after the initial unrest, suggesting frustration over the delay in deploying the Guard. As the 2024 election approaches, Republicans are using Walz's past decisions to question his leadership and effectiveness during a pivotal moment in Minnesota's history. The controversy highlights the ongoing political ramifications of the George Floyd protests, with Walz's actions becoming a focal point in the broader narrative of law enforcement and civil unrest in America.