Alongside condemnation, Obama made a plea aimed at de-escalation. He urged federal officials to work constructively with Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, and local law enforcement, arguing that coordination and transparency are essential to preventing additional violence. “This has to stop,” he said, warning that if officials fail to change course, more American lives could be put at risk in a climate already strained by fear, anger, and mistrust.
He ended by voicing support for peaceful protest, calling public demonstrations a “timely reminder” that citizens can demand accountability and challenge abuses of power. At the same time, he emphasized that protest must remain nonviolent, warning that chaos only deepens division and makes it easier for authorities to avoid scrutiny. Continue reading…