Trump Rejects Pardon Talk for Chauvin in Federal Case

President Donald Trump reportedly dismissed speculation about pardoning Derek Chauvin for federal charges today. Chauvin the ex-Minneapolis cop convicted in George Floyd’s 2020 death faces 21 years in federal prison. Trump’s stance counters calls from some conservative allies.

Ben Shapiro and Elon Musk recently urged Trump to erase Chauvin’s federal sentence. They claim he was unjustly convicted due to public pressure. Trump reportedly told reporters he has not even heard about it until now.

Chauvin pleaded guilty in 2021 to violating Floyd’s civil rights. This runs concurrent with his 22.5-year state murder sentence. A pardon would only affect the federal term leaving him in state custody.

The push for clemency has reignited debate over Floyd’s killing and its aftermath. Shapiro argues it was a woke movement victory gone too far. Floyd’s family blasted the idea as a slap in the face.

Trump has wielded his pardon power aggressively this term. He freed thousands tied to the January 6 riot within hours of taking office. Yet he appears unmoved by Chauvin’s case despite the buzz.

Minnesota officials like Attorney General Keith Ellison stressed Trump cannot touch the state conviction. They say Chauvin murdered Floyd in plain sight. Any federal pardon would be symbolic at best.

Conservatives split on the issue with some seeing Chauvin as a scapegoat. Others argue his actions were indefensible on video. Trump’s refusal may signal limits to his loyalty to such causes.

Public outcry over a potential pardon has been fierce especially from civil rights groups. Floyd’s brother Philonise said it would set America back centuries. For now Trump’s rejection holds firm.