Statement on the George Floyd Protests

On May 25th, George Floyd was killed by members of the Minneapolis police department, in a clear act of excessive force that was both witnessed by multiple people and was captured in multiple video recordings. One officer has been charged with 2nd degree murder and manslaughter, and three other officers have been charged with aiding and abetting. Over the past weeks, our nation has seen continuing widespread protests over his death.

Most of those who have protested have done so peacefully and in accordance with their first amendment rights. People have expressed their discontent over the death of Mr. Floyd and their desire to ensure that justice be done.

There have been some who have misused this situation to loot, burn buildings, and commit acts of violence. There are some political extremists who have sought to hijack the situation to advance their own agendas. Those people should be rightfully criticized and held accountable for their actions. At the same time, we must not allow them to distract from the many peaceful protesters and from the main issues at hand.

There are those who have expressed concerns about issues about the about the state of law enforcement in our country: who have expressed concerns about whether enough is done to ensure that members of law enforcement who misuse their power are held to account, about whether various police departments are taking sufficient action to ensure the protection of lives and equal treatment under the law. Such concerns should be treated seriously. Such issues should be given a thorough factual analysis to understand present conditions throughout our country and to look at how to improve things.

The purpose and ideals of law enforcement are to enforce our laws, to advance justice, and to protect the lives and wellbeing of the public. There are many regular and decent people in law enforcement, who work to uphold the law and protect their communities, and should be commended for doing so. Though there are some police officers who have engaged in misconduct, and they ought to be held accountable for their actions. There are times where the practices of law enforcement have not been best suited for its tasks. In such cases, it is important to look towards making positive reforms so that police are better able to serve their proper functions of protecting the public and ensuring equal justice under the law.

Founded: September 1, 1869, United States

Phil Collins

Prohibition Party Chairman and 2020 presidential candidate

Prohibition Party statement released