Minnesota Governor Tim Walz (D) signed an executive order on Friday to deploy the National Guard in Minneapolis, St. Paul and surrounding communities in the interest of “public security” before the trial of former police officer Derek Chauvin.
Why it matters: The murder of George Floyd, a black man who died last May after Chauvin knelt on his neck for more than eight minutes, sparked a wave of protests against racial injustice and police brutality.
- Chauvin’s trial is scheduled for March 8.
Details: The National Guard will not be on the ground immediately. The details of the implementation have not yet been announced, but will remain in effect until the order is rescinded or the need for assistance ends, according to Walz.
- “At my guidance, the National Guard has already started planning and preparing for activation for state service,” said Walz in the request.
- The mayors of Minneapolis and St. Paul asked for help from the state and the National Guard.
Between the lines, via Torey Van Oot de Axios: The announcement comes at a time when the Democratic governor is increasing pressure on Republican lawmakers to approve millions in state funding for the safety of trials. Walz urged the legislature to act next week.
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