‘This is probably our last shot’: Walz reacts to new charges against former officers in George Floyd’s death

Gov. Tim Walz reacted Wednesday evening to new charges being filed against the four former Minneapolis police officers in connection to George Floyd’s death, commented on the state of public safety in Minnesota and talked about the need and opportunity for Floyd’s death to finally bring about systemic changes in the state.

Walz said he believes "this is probably our last shot" for the state and country to fix this systemic issue.

While the justice system plays out, Walz said they’ve got to do their part in the balance of powers to create change. The governor pointed to the state filing a civil charge against the Minneapolis Police Department and beginning an investigation into the department on Tuesday.

"They’re not looking for just progress, they’re looking for transformational change. So, what I would say to Minnesotans is we have a unique opportunity," Walz said. "This is on us. The center of gravity for this is down on 38th and Chicago, the center of gravity lies in this state. This is going to be upon us, again, what that legacy looks like."

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Walz also noted a special session is going to be called next week and said there will be votes on legislation to create change related to the issues brought to attention by Floyd’s death. He didn’t elaborate on the specifics of the legislation but he added that it has the potential to be a longer special session to address many things.

"You’re going to get to see an opportunity next week, how serious people are about getting this done," said Walz. "Because I will guarantee you there will be bills put on the floor and put to a vote. Yes or no. Put your money where your mouth is and send it forward. That’s the change people are asking for."

The governor thanked people for following curfews and urged them to continue following it after he opted to extend it for two more nights.

Thursday, the Minnesota Department of Health said anybody who attended a protest, vigil or cleanup event should get tested for COVID-19, and Walz said they’ll put out an aggressive testing plan soon.

Minnesota Department of Public Safety Commissioner John Harrington noted that state, local and federal officials are working with the ATF to investigate dozens of arson fires set last week during violence and civil unrest. He also said they’re working with the FBI to investigate and get federal crimes prosecuted in connection to riots last week. One case has already seen charges filed.

Harrington also asked people to continue to call 911 if they see any flammable or incendiary materials and to continue to report vehicles without license plates to local authorities via a non-emergency number.

Adjutant General of the Minnesota National Guard, Major General Jon Jensen, said redeployment of troops is continuing with some heading home. However, a strong force remains in Minneapolis and St. Paul to help.

Jensen said guardsmen are in good spirits and committed to the mission. He added that they’re looking for opportunities to help the community.