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Derek Chauvin, the former Minneapolis police officer convicted of second-degree murder, third-degree murder, and second-degree manslaughter in the 2020 killing of George Floyd, is at the center of rumors regarding a potential federal pardon.
Speculation intensified after conservative commentators Ben Shapiro and Charlie Kirk and politicians like Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene advocated for Chauvin’s release, arguing that Floyd’s death was influenced by fentanyl in his system and underlying health conditions, despite medical examiners ruling the death a homicide due to police restraint. A growing movement, amplified by voices like Elon Musk on X, pushes for a federal pardon, citing claims of an unfair trial and political motivations behind Chauvin’s conviction.
However, even if granted, a federal pardon would only affect Chauvin’s 21-year federal sentence, leaving his 22.5-year state sentence intact, meaning he would still serve time in Minnesota. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has publicly stated that the state is preparing for potential unrest if a pardon occurs, with no indication from the White House that one is imminent. Walz emphasized that Chauvin would be transferred to state custody to serve his full state sentence if federally pardoned. Attorney General Keith Ellison has condemned the pardon push, arguing it disrespects Floyd and the rule of law. Minneapolis officials, including Community Safety Commissioner Toddrick Barnette, have overhauled emergency plans but report no credible intelligence of planned disruptions.
Posts on X reflect polarized sentiments, with some supporting a pardon and others warning of renewed riots. Despite the speculation, President Trump stated in March 2025 that he was not considering a pardon at the time.
We want to ask you, the reader: would you support a pardon for Derek Chauvin? Answer in our poll below and comment your thoughts on why he should or shouldn’t receive a federal pardon.
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