Attorney General Merrick Garland has downplayed the possibility of invoking the Insurrection Act in Minneapolis, saying it is not needed 'right now.' The statement comes as the city remains under a state of emergency following the death of a black man at the hands of a police officer.
Background on the Insurrection Act
The Insurrection Act is a federal law that allows the president to deploy troops to put down rebellions or insurrections within the United States. The law has been invoked several times in the country's history, including during the Civil War and the 1992 Los Angeles riots.
However, invoking the Insurrection Act is not a decision that is typically made by the attorney general, but by the president. It is unclear whether President Joe Biden would consider invoking the law in this situation.
Minnesota Governor Weighs In
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has stated that he does not support the idea of invoking the Insurrection Act in Minneapolis. Walz has instead called for calm and urged residents to avoid violence and looting.
Walz's comments were echoed by former Attorney General Bill Barr, who said that invoking the Insurrection Act would be a 'last resort' and that the situation in Minneapolis is not severe enough to warrant such a move.
Local and National Reactions
The situation in Minneapolis remains tense, with protests and demonstrations continuing throughout the city. Local business owners have reported significant damage to their properties, and some have called for greater protection from the city's authorities.
On a national level, there has been widespread condemnation of the police violence that led to the death of the black man. Many have called for greater accountability and reform within the city's police department.
The situation in Minneapolis is likely to continue to unfold in the coming days. It remains to be seen whether the Insurrection Act will be invoked or whether the situation will be resolved through other means.