For more than a year, State Senator Nicole Mitchell operated on the periphery of the Minnesota Legislature as she awaited trial on felony charges.
Her fellow Democrats, who hold a one-seat majority, continued to rely on her vote, but no longer included her in caucus meetings or committees. All the while, Republicans were trying to expel her from the chamber.
On Monday, just days after a jury convicted her of burglary, Ms. Mitchell said she would soon step down. That decision could tip the balance of power in the State Capitol, leaving the Senate with an even number of Democrats and Republicans until a special election can be held to fill her seat.
By stepping down, Ms. Mitchell, is likely to avoid the possibility of being removed from office. The decision also gives her party a chance to replace her and regain a majority if they win a special election. Ms. Mitchell carried her district in the suburbs of Minneapolis and St. Paul by a nearly 18-point margin in 2022.
Ms. Mitchell was arrested in April 2024 and accused of breaking into her stepmother’s home. She maintained her innocence after her arrest, and for more than a year resisted calls by Republicans for her to resign or be expelled.
After a jury in Becker County convicted Ms. Mitchell on Friday of two felony charges, legislative leaders from both parties said they expected her to resign. Gov. Tim Walz, a Democrat, is expected to call a special election in the district, which is considered solidly Democratic.
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