US politics: Minnesota senator Nicole Mitchell to resign after burglary conviction; Democrats risk losing one-seat majority
The Democratic lawmaker, who was found guilty last week of first-degree burglary and possessing burglary tools, will remain in office until 4 August to complete her legislative duties and arrange healthcare cover for her son, ABC news reported.
Mitchell, 51, represents a Democratic-leaning district just outside the Twin Cities. Her conviction has intensified political tensions in the narrowly divided Minnesota Senate, where Democrats hold a fragile one-seat majority.
She was arrested in April 2024 after breaking into her estranged stepmother's home. Initially, Mitchell told police she had entered the property to retrieve sentimental belongings, including her late father's ashes.
However, during her trial, she changed her account, saying she had entered the home to check on her stepmother's wellbeing, citing her Alzheimer's diagnosis. The jury took just three hours to reach a unanimous guilty verdict.
Her decision to delay resignation has drawn criticism from Republicans. Senate Republican Leader Mark Johnson said Mitchell should leave immediately, accusing Democrats of keeping her in office to secure crucial votes during the legislative session.
'Senator Mitchell was convicted of two felonies; she doesn't get to give the Senate two weeks' notice,' Johnson said. 'The only reason Mitchell is still in office is because Democrats needed her vote to pass their agenda and refused to hold her accountable during session.'
Democratic Senate Majority Leader Erin Murphy said Mitchell had previously pledged to resign if convicted. 'I expect her to follow through on that pledge,' Murphy said.
Mitchell was elected in 2022 with a comfortable margin and has had a diverse career as a former TV weather presenter, a lawyer, and a member of the Air National Guard. Her departure is expected to trigger a special election in her district.
Under Minnesota law, convicted felons are not automatically barred from holding office unless they are imprisoned. However, legal experts say ambiguity in the state constitution could lead to further debate over her eligibility had she chosen to stay, ABC news reported.
For now, Mitchell's resignation sets the stage for a potential Senate deadlock, with both parties eyeing the upcoming vacancy in what could become a fiercely contested political battle.
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