Governor Tim Walz's handling of the 2020 George Floyd riots has left some Minnesotans concerned about his potential leadership as Vice President Harris' running mate.
Three years after the devastating George Floyd riots that ravaged Minneapolis, residents are expressing concerns over Governor Tim Walz's leadership, particularly in light of his recent selection as Vice President Harris' running mate on the 2024 Democrat ticket.
Max Rymer, a former Minneapolis resident who relocated to a suburb in 2020, voiced his disbelief that some Minnesotans still support Walz after "what we've been through the last four years." He recalled a harrowing incident when a local business owner near his former home was robbed and shot during the riots, an unprecedented occurrence before that time.
Minneapolis Three Years After the George Floyd Riots: Concerns Rise over Governor's Leadership
Rymer attributed the decline in Minneapolis to a combination of factors: COVID-19 lockdown mandates, the destruction caused by the riots, rising violent crime, and immigration policies that have contributed to the state's high number of ISIS recruits.
During the riots, an entire Minneapolis police precinct was burned to the ground. Business owners described their calls for police assistance going unanswered as authorities were overwhelmed. The chaos and lack of response led them to fend for themselves.
Minneapolis Three Years After the George Floyd Riots: Concerns Rise over Governor's Leadership
Charles Stotts and Kacey White, owners of Town Talk Diner & Gastropub, witnessed their historic restaurant engulfed in flames on live television. Upon visiting the site later, they were devastated by the destruction.
Statistics indicate that more people are leaving Minnesota than moving to the state. Rymer observed that the once-vibrant downtown area now lacks activity, with some parts of the city becoming unrecognizable.
Minneapolis Three Years After the George Floyd Riots: Concerns Rise over Governor's Leadership
Critics argue that Walz's progressive policies have exacerbated the state's problems. Rymer described him as "uber progressive," noting a perceived shift in his governing style since his election.
Other Minneapolis residents who moved to the suburbs after the riots cited safety concerns, violence, and business closures as reasons for their departure.
Minneapolis Three Years After the George Floyd Riots: Concerns Rise over Governor's Leadership
Walz's response to the riots has drawn scrutiny, with accusations of slow action and a reluctance to confront the violence due to pressure from his progressive base. Even Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey criticized Walz for not responding promptly to calls for help.
Despite these concerns, Democrats have praised Walz's decision as a wise choice. They highlight his experience in Congress, his military background, and his "Minnesota dad" persona. Minnesota Democrat House Speaker Melissa Hortman emphasized Walz's ability to collaborate and achieve results.
Minneapolis Three Years After the George Floyd Riots: Concerns Rise over Governor's Leadership
As the 2024 election approaches, Walz's leadership will remain under close scrutiny, particularly as concerns linger over his response to the George Floyd riots and its impact on Minneapolis. Residents will be evaluating his performance and weighing its implications for his potential role as the nation's second-in-command.
