Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey Faces Backlash Over George Floyd Post on Memorial Day

Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey ignited a social media firestorm Monday after posting a tribute to George Floyd on Memorial Day, a federal holiday dedicated to honoring U.S. military personnel who died in service to the nation.

“Today, we remember George Floyd, who was murdered by a former Minneapolis police officer six years ago,” Frey wrote on X, reflecting on Floyd’s death and its impact on Minneapolis and the broader national debate over policing.

The post quickly drew criticism from conservative commentators, veterans and social media users who argued that Memorial Day should remain focused on honoring fallen service members.

Among the sharpest responses came from former Air Force pilot Buzz Patterson.

“Memorial Day is sacred ground for honoring American heroes who gave their lives for this country, not thugs,” Patterson wrote. “Clown Mayor Jacob Frey… hijacks it to worship George Floyd.”

Memorial Day is sacred ground for honoring American heroes who gave their lives for this country, not thugs.

Clown Mayor Jacob Frey, terminally infected with Minnesota hijacks it to worship George Floyd—a violent career criminal, armed robber, fentanyl-filled junkie who…

— Buzz Patterson (@BuzzPatterson) May 25, 2026

Investigative reporter Sarah Fields also criticized the mayor’s decision to highlight Floyd on Memorial Day.

“You remember a guy who died of an overdose who pointed a gun at a pregnant woman,” Fields wrote. “I remember my best friend, who was sniped through the head during the last month of her deployment. This is why we will never find common ground.”

You remember a guy who died of an overdose who pointed a gun at a pregnant woman.

I remember my best friend, who was sniped through the head during the last month of her deployment.

This is why we will never find common ground. GFY.

— Sarah Fields (@SarahisCensored) May 25, 2026

Commentator Matt Van Swol joined the criticism, calling Frey’s post offensive and questioning why the mayor chose Memorial Day for the message.

It’s Memorial Day you vile piece of shit.

Today is when we remember our fallen military service men who GAVE THEIR LIVES DEFENDING THE COUNTRY!!!!!!

WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU?!!!!

— Matt Van Swol (@mattvanswol) May 25, 2026