Minnesota Governor Tim Walz's response to the 2020 George Floyd riots in Minneapolis has sparked concerns among some residents about the state's leadership. Now, as Walz, 60, joins Vice President Harris as her running mate on the 2024 Democrat ticket, residents are expressing worries about the potential new leadership at the national level.
Residents like Max Rymer, who relocated from a neighborhood south of downtown Minneapolis to a suburb north of the city in 2020, are critical of Walz's handling of the situation. Rymer, a Republican candidate for the Minnesota House of Representatives District 28B, expressed disbelief at the support Walz still receives despite the challenges faced by residents over the past four years.
The aftermath of the George Floyd riots, coupled with COVID-19 lockdown mandates, rising violent crime rates, and immigration policies, has left many Minnesotans disillusioned. The destruction caused by the riots was so severe that an entire police precinct in Minneapolis was burned down.
Business owners in Minneapolis, such as Lloyd Drilling and Elijah Fhima, recounted instances where they felt abandoned by authorities during the unrest. The impact of the riots led to a surge in people leaving Minnesota, with the state experiencing a significant migratory hit in 2020.
Despite criticism from some quarters, Democrats have praised Walz's leadership, citing his collaborative efforts with the legislature and his commitment to serving Minnesotans. However, concerns persist among residents like Rymer, who believe that Walz's governance leans heavily towards progressivism.
While opinions on Walz's leadership remain divided, his selection as Vice President Harris' running mate has stirred a mix of reactions, with some viewing him as a strong leader and others questioning his approach to governance. As the 2024 election approaches, the debate over Walz's suitability for higher office is likely to intensify.
