Apr 20, 2021 - Politics & Policy

Biden to Floyd family: "Now there’s some justice"

President Joe Biden spoke to members of George Floyd's family in the aftermath of Derek Chauvin's guilty verdict, acknowledging that while "nothing is going to make it all better" at least some justice had been served.

The big picture: The verdict is a rare conviction of a police officer, and advocates believe it could be a turning point in the fight for racial justice.

What they're saying: "Nothing is going to make it all better. But at least, God, now there’s some justice," said Biden on speakerphone to the family after the verdict was announced.

  • Biden praised the family as "incredible" and added that he's been "watching every second of this."
  • "We're all so relieved," said Biden, adding that he was eager to see the family soon.

Biden also promised progress on racial justice policy, including the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act.

  • "We're going to get a lot more done."
  • "This can be our first shot at dealing with genuine systemic racism."

Vice President Kamala Harris also spoke on the phone call, thanking the family for their courage and commitment during the trial.

  • "In George’s name and memory, we are going to make sure his legacy is intact and that history is going to look on this moment and know that it’s an inflection moment."
  • "We’re going to make something good come out of this tragedy," she concluded.

First Lady Jill Biden joined the call towards the end, telling the family they were in her thoughts and calling the verdict a "positive ending."

Go deeper: Minneapolis reflects on Chauvin verdict as a step toward healing and calm

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