Governors across the country are reacting to video showing the deadly confrontation between Tyre Nichols and Memphis police. Many of them called for justice and accountability for the officers involved and urged peaceful protests.
- Colorado Gov. Jared Polis called the incident "inhumane and appalling," saying that “violence has no place in our country, state, and communities." Polis said, “Americans need to be able to trust those who have chosen to protect them and serve their communities."
- New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy said on Twitter he was "horrified by the video footage released earlier today that showed Memphis police officers brutally and inhumanely beating Tyre Nichols. When those sworn to uphold the law violate the rights of those they serve, there must be accountability."
- Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp said his family was "deeply saddened" by the newly released footage. He said he is praying for the community and Nichols' family, adding, "As citizens express their grief and reactions to his killing, the state continues to respect the right of peaceful protest."
- Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers called for peace in the next few days as more people speak out against police violence. "There must be a swift, thorough, and transparent investigation to ensure accountability, which is the first step toward justice, toward healing, and toward change," he said on Twitter.
- Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin said, "The disturbing and shocking video released this evening displays incomprehensible violence towards another human being and we must condemn these heinous actions." Youngkin asked people to to come together and "treat one another with love and respect."
- Delaware Gov. John Carney said the body camera footage showed that what happened to Nichols was a "obvious and excessive use of force, with the most tragic result." In a statement posted on Twitter, he pledged to "redouble our efforts to improve the relationships between police and the communities they serve" in Delaware.
- Maryland Gov. Wes Moore said it was "difficult not to fight back tears watching this video." He said he is thankful that the Department of Justice is involved in the investigation and called for the officers to be "held to account for their barbarism."
- Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz said, "As we grapple with the pain of another Black life lost at the hands of law enforcement, we must recommit to stopping this pattern of violence—both in Minnesota and across the country," in a post on Twitter.
- California Gov. Gavin Newsom said he sends his "deepest condolences" to Nichols' family, saying he "should be alive today. He said the video shows "abhorrent behavior and these officers must be held accountable for their deadly actions and clear abuse of power."