Nicole Mitchell to Resign from Minnesota Senate Following Burglary Conviction
Minnesota State Senator Nicole Mitchell will resign from her seat by August 4, 2025, at 5 p.m., following her conviction on felony first-degree burglary and possession of burglary tools. The charges stemmed from an April 2024 incident where she broke into her estranged stepmother's home. The announcement comes after a jury found her guilty on July 18, 2025, after three hours of deliberation.
Mitchell's attorney stated that the two-week delay is necessary for her to conclude legislative responsibilities, assist constituents, transition staff, and secure health insurance for her son. However, the delayed resignation has drawn criticism, particularly from Republican lawmakers.
Conviction and Charges
On July 18, 2025, a jury found Nicole Mitchell guilty of felony first-degree burglary and possession of burglary tools. The charges arose from an incident that occurred on April 22, 2024, when Mitchell broke into the home of her estranged stepmother, Carol Mitchell, in Detroit Lakes, Minnesota.
Timeline of Key Events
- April 22, 2024: Nicole Mitchell was arrested for breaking into her stepmother's home, claiming she was there to retrieve sentimental items belonging to her late father.
- July 15, 2025: Mitchell's felony burglary trial commenced with opening statements.
- July 17, 2025: Mitchell testified in her own defense, altering her initial statement to police by asserting that she entered the home to check on her stepmother's well-being due to concerns about Alzheimer's.
- July 18, 2025: The jury found Mitchell guilty of first-degree burglary and possession of burglary tools.
- July 21, 2025: Mitchell's attorney announced her intention to resign by August 4, 2025.
- August 4, 2025: Proposed effective date of Mitchell's resignation.
Context and Key Players
Nicole Mitchell, a first-term Democratic state senator, represented District 47 (Woodbury), a Democratic-leaning suburban area. Before entering politics, she worked as a broadcast meteorologist and served as a retired Air National Guard officer. Carol Mitchell, her estranged stepmother, is the victim in the burglary case and testified that she felt "extremely violated" by the incident.
Impact on the Minnesota Senate
The Minnesota Senate is currently closely divided. With Mitchell's resignation, the Senate will be temporarily tied at 33-33. This shift will significantly impact the balance of power until a special election is held to fill the vacant seat. Prior to this, Democrats held a slim one-seat majority.
Democratic Senate Majority Leader Erin Murphy stated that Mitchell had pledged to resign if convicted and expects her to honor that commitment. Conversely, Republican Senate Minority Leader Mark Johnson criticized the delayed resignation, arguing that Mitchell "doesn't get to give the Senate two weeks' notice." He accused Democrats of shielding her to protect their political power.
Governor Tim Walz has stated that he expects Mitchell to resign and plans to call a special election to fill her seat as soon as possible, aiming to do so before the Legislature reconvenes in February.
Political Fallout and Reactions
The incident and subsequent conviction have sparked considerable controversy. Mitchell's changing accounts of the events and her initial reluctance to resign immediately after her arrest have fueled criticism. The delayed resignation has particularly drawn the ire of Republicans, who believe she should have stepped down immediately.
Public reaction has been divided along party lines. Republicans have called for immediate resignation and accountability, while Democrats have acknowledged the conviction and anticipate that Mitchell will follow through with her pledge to resign.
Consequences and Future Outlook
Mitchell's resignation creates an immediate tie in the Minnesota Senate, making the upcoming special election a crucial battleground for control of the chamber. The special election, to be called by Governor Walz, is expected to attract significant campaign funding and attention.
Beyond the political ramifications, Mitchell faces legal consequences. The first-degree burglary conviction carries a mandatory minimum sentence of six months in jail and a maximum of 20 years. She also faces up to three years for possession of burglary tools. Her legal team is reportedly exploring options for an appeal.
