As the fifth anniversary of George Floyd’s death approaches, speculation about a potential “Tim Walz pardon Derek Chauvin” scenario has dominated headlines and social media. The phrase “Tim Walz pardon Derek Chauvin” is trending amid rumors that former President Donald Trump might issue a federal pardon for Derek Chauvin, the ex-Minneapolis police officer convicted of murdering Floyd. But what is fact, what is rumor, and what would actually happen if a pardon is granted? Here’s the latest, explained in detail.
Most Recent Developments: Rumors and Official Responses
On May 14, 2025, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz addressed the growing speculation that Derek Chauvin could receive a presidential pardon. Walz stated there’s “no indication whether they’re going to do it or not,” referring to the Trump administration, but acknowledged that with this presidency, “it seems like that might be something they would do.” He made it clear he opposes any federal pardon for Chauvin, but also recognized that the president has the constitutional right to issue one.
Despite mounting rumors, President Trump denied in March that he had any plans to pardon Chauvin. However, state and city officials in Minnesota are preparing for every scenario, including possible unrest, should a pardon occur.
Tim Walz Pardon Derek Chauvin: What’s Actually Possible?
- The key phrase “Tim Walz pardon Derek Chauvin” is misleading. Only the U.S. president can pardon federal convictions. Governor Walz cannot pardon Chauvin’s state murder conviction.
- Chauvin is serving two sentences:
- 22.5 years for state murder and manslaughter convictions in Minnesota
- 21 years for federal civil rights violations
- Even if Trump pardoned Chauvin’s federal sentence, Chauvin would remain in prison to serve his state sentence. He would simply be transferred from federal custody back to Minnesota state prison.
Table: Chauvin’s Sentences and Pardon Impact
| Sentence Type | Length | Who Can Pardon? | Effect of Federal Pardon |
|---|---|---|---|
| State (MN) | 22.5 years | Governor (not Walz) | No effect |
| Federal | 21 years | U.S. President | Chauvin returns to state prison |
“Tim Walz Pardon Derek Chauvin” in Political Discourse
Why the Rumor?
- The phrase “Tim Walz pardon Derek Chauvin” is circulating due to public confusion and political rhetoric.
- MAGA-aligned figures, including Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, Ben Shapiro, and Elon Musk, have called for Chauvin’s release, arguing his sentence is excessive and politically motivated.
- Minnesota leaders, including Walz, Attorney General Keith Ellison, and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, have publicly rejected the idea of any pardon leading to Chauvin’s release.
- Ellison emphasized, “Trump has no power to pardon Chauvin’s state conviction. None. A pardon of Chauvin’s federal conviction would return him to Minnesota to serve the rest of his sentence in state prison”.
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Community and Law Enforcement Response
- Minneapolis and state officials have been briefed and are preparing for potential unrest, but stress there is no credible intelligence about a pardon or planned disruptions.
- Emergency management and law enforcement protocols have been updated since 2020 to handle any eventuality, including protests or civil unrest.
Public Reaction and Social Media Buzz
The rumor mill has been fueled by right-wing media and social media influencers. Some see the possibility of a pardon as a test of the political climate ahead of the 2024 presidential election. Others, including Floyd’s family, have responded with anger and frustration at the speculation.
“Stay in your lane. Your opinion is your opinion, but facts are facts. And the fact is Chauvin’s knee was on my brother’s neck. He held him there until his last breath when he shouldn’t have,” said Philonise Floyd, George Floyd’s brother, reacting to calls for a pardon1.
Meanwhile, some conservative commentators argue that pardoning Chauvin would help the country “move past” the political divisions sparked by Floyd’s murder. Legal experts, however, caution that such a move would be widely seen as racially charged and would not actually free Chauvin from prison.
What Happens If a Pardon Is Granted?
Step-by-step:
- If Trump pardons Chauvin’s federal sentence, Chauvin is transferred from federal prison (currently in Texas, after being attacked in Arizona in 2023) back to Minnesota state prison.
- He would continue serving his 22.5-year state sentence.
- No release, no exoneration-just a change in location and jurisdiction.
Points to Remember:
- The “Tim Walz pardon Derek Chauvin” scenario is not legally possible.
- Only a presidential pardon can affect federal sentences, not state ones.
- Chauvin’s state conviction stands, regardless of any federal action.
- Officials are prepared for unrest but emphasize there is no credible threat at this time.
The Bottom Line: Tim Walz Pardon Derek Chauvin Is Not Happening
Despite rumors and political noise, the facts remain clear. Governor Tim Walz cannot pardon Derek Chauvin. Even if President Trump grants a federal pardon, Chauvin will remain behind bars for his state conviction. The phrase “Tim Walz pardon Derek Chauvin” is a misnomer, but it reflects the ongoing tensions and political divisions surrounding the case as its anniversary approaches.
Officials urge calm and clarity, reminding the public that justice, in this case, is being served according to the law. The debate continues, but the outcome is not in doubt: Derek Chauvin will not walk free, regardless of federal political maneuvers.