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Written by Rebecca Larson.
Minnesota authorities are taking proactive measures to prepare for potential civil unrest in response to speculation that President Donald Trump may issue a federal pardon for Derek Chauvin, the former Minneapolis police officer convicted in the death of George Floyd. Governor Tim Walz, alongside the Minnesota National Guard, Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, and Hennepin County Sheriff Dawanna Witt, has been briefed on contingency plans to address possible riots, reflecting the state’s heightened alertness to the social and political ramifications of such a decision. This development underscores the enduring tensions surrounding Floyd’s death and the broader issues of justice and public safety in Minneapolis.
Background of the Chauvin Case and Pardon Speculation
Derek Chauvin, a former Minneapolis police officer, was convicted in 2021 on both state and federal charges related to the May 2020 death of George Floyd, an incident that sparked nationwide protests and riots. Chauvin’s federal conviction for violating Floyd’s civil rights carries a 21-year sentence, while his state conviction for second-degree murder mandates a concurrent 22.5-year term. Currently incarcerated at a federal facility in Arizona, Chauvin would be transferred to Oak Park Heights Prison in Minnesota to continue serving his state sentence if pardoned federally, ensuring he remains imprisoned.
Speculation about a possible pardon emerged following President Trump’s return to office in 2025, fueled by calls from some conservative commentators. For instance, Ben Shapiro has publicly advocated for Chauvin’s pardon, arguing that his conviction was influenced by media bias and political pressure. However, Trump has not confirmed any intention to grant clemency, stating in March 2025 that he was unaware of such discussions. Despite the absence of concrete evidence, Minnesota officials are preparing for the possibility, given the potential for significant public reaction.
The 2020 riots following Floyd’s death caused an estimated $500 million in damages across the Twin Cities, with widespread looting, arson, and violence. The memory of this unrest, coupled with the polarizing nature of Chauvin’s case, has prompted authorities to approach the pardon rumors with caution. Governor Walz emphasized the need for preparedness, noting, “With this presidency, it seems like something they would do,” reflecting a pragmatic stance despite the lack of definitive intelligence.
Preparations for Potential Civil Unrest
Multiple sources indicate that Minnesota’s leadership is coordinating a robust response to mitigate risks associated with a potential Chauvin pardon. The Minnesota National Guard, which played a critical role in quelling the 2020 riots, is on standby, with plans to deploy personnel to key areas if necessary. Mayor Jacob Frey and Sheriff Dawanna Witt have been briefed on security protocols, including enhanced law enforcement presence and coordination with state and federal agencies. The Minnesota Department of Corrections is also prepared to facilitate Chauvin’s transfer from Arizona to Minnesota, ensuring continuity of his state sentence.
Minneapolis Community Safety Commissioner Toddrick Barnette clarified that, even in the event of a federal pardon, Chauvin would remain incarcerated due to his state conviction. “We have no credible intelligence about any pardon or planned disruptions,” Barnette stated, emphasizing that the city has overhauled its emergency management plans since 2020. These plans include improved communication channels, rapid response teams, and community engagement strategies to prevent escalation. For example, local businesses, still recovering from 2020’s destruction, are being advised to secure their properties as a precaution.
The proactive measures reflect lessons learned from the 2020 unrest, when delays in deploying the National Guard exacerbated the situation. Historical accounts reveal tensions between Frey and Walz over the timing of the Guard’s activation, with Frey asserting he requested assistance on May 27, 2020, while Walz’s office maintained that a formal written request was required. By May 30, 2020, Walz had fully mobilized the Guard, an unprecedented move in Minnesota’s history, which helped restore order. Today’s preparations aim to avoid similar missteps, prioritizing swift and coordinated action.
Legal and Social Implications of a Pardon
A federal pardon for Chauvin would have limited practical impact on his imprisonment, as his state sentence ensures he remains behind bars for at least 15 years with good behavior, given Minnesota’s early-release policies. Attorney General Keith Ellison has been unequivocal, stating on national television that Chauvin “still owes Minnesota 22-and-a-half years” and will not be released. This legal reality underscores the symbolic weight of a pardon, which could be perceived as undermining the justice achieved in Floyd’s case, particularly among communities that view the conviction as a hard-won victory against systemic racism.
The social implications are profound. Floyd’s death galvanized the Black Lives Matter movement, leading to global protests and calls for police reform. In Minneapolis, the Third Precinct police station was burned, and over 1,000 buildings were damaged, reflecting deep-seated anger and distrust. A pardon could reignite these tensions, potentially sparking protests or violence, especially in communities still grappling with the trauma of 2020. Conversely, some conservative groups argue that Chauvin was unfairly targeted, citing factors like Floyd’s drug use or health conditions, though these claims have been largely debunked in court.
The case also highlights ongoing debates about the role of presidential pardons in high-profile cases. While Trump has the authority to pardon federal convictions, state sentences are beyond his reach, a distinction that has fueled confusion among the public. The EPA’s recent decision to eliminate unpopular start-stop technology in vehicles, as announced by Lee Zeldin, offers a parallel example of a government agency responding to public sentiment. Similarly, Minnesota’s preparations reflect an attempt to anticipate and manage public reaction, balancing legal obligations with social stability.
Chauvin’s personal circumstances add another layer of complexity. In 2023, he was stabbed 22 times by fellow inmate John Turscak at a federal prison in Tucson, Arizona, highlighting the dangers he faces in custody. A pardon could alter his security arrangements, potentially increasing risks if he is perceived as a high-profile target. These considerations are likely factored into the state’s planning, as authorities seek to ensure both public safety and Chauvin’s secure transfer.
Our Take
Minnesota’s proactive preparations for a potential Derek Chauvin pardon demonstrate a commendable commitment to public safety, informed by the devastating lessons of 2020. While the likelihood of a pardon remains uncertain, the state’s readiness to address possible unrest reflects a mature approach to governance in a polarized era. As a journalist, I believe the focus must remain on fostering dialogue and transparency to prevent escalation, ensuring that any response prioritizes community safety and justice. The enduring impact of George Floyd’s death demands that authorities navigate this issue with utmost care, recognizing its potential to reshape public trust in institutions.
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