Minnesota Sen. Nicole Mitchell Resigns After Felony Burglary Conviction

Minnesota State Senator Nicole Mitchell has announced plans to resign from her seat by August 4 following her conviction on two felony counts of first-degree burglary related to breaking into her stepmother's home in April 2024. Mitchell, a first-term senator representing District 47 in Woodbury, was found guilty after a week-long trial where she claimed she entered the home to check on her stepmother, who has Alzheimer's disease, but police evidence contradicted her account. Her attorney stated she intends to finish outstanding legislative duties, assist her staff with employment transitions, and secure health insurance for her son before stepping down. The conviction has led to calls for her resignation from Senate colleagues, and her departure will create a 33-33 tie in the Minnesota Senate, prompting Governor Tim Walz to call a special election. Mitchell faces a sentencing hearing expected in September and a minimum six-month sentence for her burglary conviction. Despite the controversy, Mitchell expressed that serving her district and state was the honor of her lifetime.