Minneapolis Mayor’s Memorial Day Message Sparks Controversy
On Memorial Day, Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey shared a message honoring George Floyd, just hours before paying tribute to U.S. service members who lost their lives in duty. His post, made on X around 10 a.m. ET, highlighted the impact of Floyd’s murder six years ago by a former police officer, stating, “That moment changed our city forever.”
Today we remember George Floyd, who was killed by a former Minneapolis police officer six years ago. That moment changed our city forever.
— Mayor Jacob Frey (@MayorFrey) May 25, 2026
Frey followed up with several tweets discussing his administration’s efforts in police reform, emphasizing that Minneapolis is confronting “painful truths about race, policing, inequality, and trust.” Yet, his remarks didn’t sit well with many users on X, who noted that he seemed to overlook the true meaning of Memorial Day.
Radio host Joe Pagliarulo criticized the mayor’s message, asking if this was truly appropriate for a day meant to honor those who fought for freedom, calling it “disgusting.” Similarly, sports commentator John Root remarked that the day should focus on those who made the ultimate sacrifice, not on individuals associated with unrest.
More than two hours later, Frey posted his tribute to fallen soldiers. He wrote, “Memorial Day is a day to remember the brave military men and women who gave their lives for our country and the freedoms we enjoy today. We are deeply grateful to them and to the families who carry on their memories.”
Memorial Day is a day to remember the brave soldiers who gave their lives for our country and the freedoms we enjoy today. We are deeply grateful to them and to the families who carry on their memories. pic.twitter.com/v8I2tuzr77
— Mayor Jacob Frey (@MayorFrey) May 25, 2026
Commentators pointed out that Frey had shared five messages about Floyd, but only one for the service members. The Hennepin County Medical Examiner classified Floyd’s death on May 25, 2020, as a homicide linked to police officer Derek Chauvin’s actions, but also noted underlying health issues and substance abuse.
Floyd’s death led to widespread protests across the U.S., resulting in significant casualties and extensive damage, estimated near $1 billion.
