Walz promises consequences for those who tore down Columbus statue

Gov. Tim Walz on Thursday promised consequences for the protesters who tore down the Christopher Columbus statue outside the Minnesota Capitol a day earlier.

Walz denied any officials told Minnesota State Patrol troopers to not protect the statue. Wednesday, authorities said troopers would protect the statue but little resistance was offered and the statue was torn down.

"This was an act of civil disobedience. The people doing it clearly understood and were prepared to take those consequences," Walz said.

Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan said she wasn't at all sad the statue was gone but didn't condone the protesters' actions.

---

Related stories:

Native American families react to the removal of Christopher Columbus statue in St. Paul

Protesters tear down Christopher Columbus statue outside state Capitol

Timeline: Columbus statue torn down by protesters 90 minutes after vow to protect