Moment of Silence at the Minnesota GOP Convention

George Floyd died on May 25, 2020, after Chauvin knelt on his neck for over nine minutes, sparking nationwide protests and police-reform demands. Chauvin was convicted in 2021 of murder and manslaughter, receiving sentences totaling more than 20 years. The U.S. Supreme Court declined to hear his state-conviction appeal in 2023.

TMZ

GOP leaders described the pause as a spontaneous floor action, not a party endorsement, and noted that some view the conviction as unfair. Party officials declined to endorse Chauvin.

Newser

Keith Ellison said it was “heartbroken and frankly shocked,” adding Minnesota’s families deserve better. Rep. Jamie Long called silence “disgusting.” Rep. Danny Nadeau, ran segment, called it “not a good look.” Jason Heaser, House candidate, called tribute a political stunt ignoring service members killed in combat.

Newser

The silence lasted 10 seconds. Chauvin’s sentences total over 20 years, release in 2037. Voice vote recorded loud support, few objections. The tribute came days after Floyd’s sixth anniversary on May 25, 2026.

TMZ

The episode arrives as Minnesota gears up for the 2026 midterm elections, including open governor and U.S. Senate races. Democrats plan to portray the tribute as evidence of GOP insensitivity to racial-justice concerns, potentially shaping voter attitudes. The incident also highlights partisan splits over criminal-justice reform.

Newser

GOP leaders describe the pause as a spontaneous floor action, while the delegate’s motion explicitly sought a retrial and pardon, indicating differing internal narratives. No public polling data on voter reaction is available.

Newser

• “heartbroken and frankly shocked” — Keith Ellison, Minnesota Attorney General

TMZ

• “disgusting.” — Jamie Long, State Representative

TMZ

• “There are a lot of people that believe Derek Chauvin was improperly convicted, and not treated well.” — Alex Plechash, GOP Chair

Newser

• “Rather than a moment of silence to honor the service members killed this year in combat across the globe,” — Jason Heaser, State House candidate

Newser

Democratic campaigns plan to feature the tribute in ads and debates, while the Minnesota GOP says it will clarify its stance on criminal-justice policy before the November ballot.

Newser