Fact Check: Trump’s False Claim About Deploying the National Guard in Minneapolis in 2020

Remember those turbulent days in the summer of 2020, when the world watched as protests erupted in Minneapolis following the death of George Floyd? Amidst the chaos, then-President Donald Trump made a series of claims about his role in deploying the National Guard to the city, claims that have resurfaced recently, causing a stir.

The Claim:

Trump has repeatedly asserted that he, not Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, ordered the National Guard to Minneapolis. He made this claim again in a recent rally, claiming, “I deployed the National Guard very, very quickly.”

The Reality:

This claim is false, and here’s why:

1. The Governor Has the Authority: The governor of Minnesota, not the President, holds the authority to activate the National Guard within the state. This authority is outlined in both the state and federal constitutions.

2. Walz’s Actions: Governor Walz did activate the National Guard on May 29, 2020, two days after George Floyd’s death. He did so independently of the President, demonstrating the state’s authority over the National Guard during domestic emergencies.

3. Trump’s Limited Role: While Trump did offer federal assistance to Minnesota, this assistance was primarily in the form of resources, like personnel and equipment. The President did not personally order the National Guard deployment.

4. Evidence from Official Documents: The official timeline of events confirms Walz’s independent action. The Minnesota Department of Public Safety’s “Chronology of Events” document states, “Governor Walz authorized the Minnesota National Guard to be activated on May 29, 2020.”

5. Public Statements: Walz himself has repeatedly clarified that he was the one who activated the National Guard, stating in an interview, “I activated the National Guard. The President made some offers, but I activated the National Guard.”

6. The President’s Role is Auxiliary: While the President does have the authority to deploy the National Guard under specific circumstances, such as during federal emergencies or when requested by the governor, the governor’s authority within a state is paramount.

7. Expert Opinions: Experts in constitutional law and military affairs confirm that the Governor’s power over the National Guard in domestic situations is well-established.

This Fact Check is Not Just About the Past:

Trump’s insistence on a false narrative about the National Guard deployment has implications that extend beyond a historical inaccuracy. It further contributes to the erosion of public trust in credible sources of information and undermines the democratic process.

Here’s why this matters:

• Erosion of Trust: Trump’s continued insistence on this false claim, despite clear evidence to the contrary, further fuels public skepticism towards verifiable facts and official sources of information.

• Undermining Democracy: Disregarding facts and spreading misinformation can lead to a lack of accountability and erode the public’s ability to make informed decisions about their government.

• Perpetuating Division: The persistent spread of misinformation creates divisions within society, hindering progress towards a shared understanding of critical issues.

What can we do?

• Be Informed: Engage with reliable sources of information, such as reputable news organizations and government agencies.

• Fact-Check: Don’t just accept information at face value. Utilize fact-checking websites and tools to verify claims before sharing them.

• Hold Leaders Accountable: Demand transparency and accountability from leaders. Challenge inaccurate claims and encourage a culture of truthfulness.

Remember, in a democracy, informed citizens are essential for a healthy and functioning society. By actively engaging with facts and holding our leaders accountable, we can contribute to a more informed and responsible future.

Keywords: Donald Trump, Minnesota, National Guard, Governor Tim Walz, George Floyd, Minneapolis, Fact Check, Misinformation, Democracy, Public Trust, Accountability, Informed Citizens

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