Walz calls out National Guard after night of violence, looting, arson in Minneapolis

Governor Tim Walz is calling out the National Guard, in the wake of violence, looting and arson fires in Minneapolis sparked by the death of George Floyd. In a statement, the governor says “George Floyd’s death should lead to justice and systemic change, not more death and destruction.” Walz says he “will always defend the right to protest” and that’s why he is “answering our local leaders’ request for Minnesota National Guard assistance to protect peaceful demonstrators, neighbors, and small businesses in Minnesota.” The governor says about 200 State Patrol troopers will assist in public safety efforts “for the next several days.”