Minnesota senators react to Sen. Nicole Mitchell’s announcement to resign
ST. PAUL, Minn. (KVRR) — A few days after receiving a guilty verdict for burglary, Minnesota State Senator Nicole Mitchell has decided to resign. In that time, she plans to finish up her final duties and obtain health insurance for her son.
“I don’t know that she’s done her constituents any service by being there. I mean, she’s had very limited access over the last year. She was not in our caucus anymore. So I don’t know how well she’s served her constituents. Why she decided to not resign, that is clearly she thought that she was innocent. That she took this to a jury trial because she thought she had a path forward, but clearly she did not,” said Sen. Rob Kupec.
Kupec had previously called for Mitchell’s resignation over a year ago and believed this was the right decision. But, Senate Republican Leader Mark Johnson shared his dismay with Mitchell’s decision in a two-week period prior to leaving office.
“Senator Mitchell was convicted of two felonies; she doesn’t get to give the Senate two weeks’ notice. Democrats shielded Mitchell for 15 months to protect their political power, but a jury needed just three hours to confirm what was already clear: she shouldn’t be a senator. Not after April 22, 2024. Not in January of 2025. And not today.”
A press release distributed by Mitchell’s attorney says Mitchell plans to resign from office no later than August 4th. She plans to use the remaining time to wrap up outstanding legislative projects, complete ongoing constituent services, transition staff, and obtain health insurance for her son, who is currently on insurance provided by her job.
“The district she’s in, while it’s not a slam dunk win for Democrats, it is leaned very heavily towards Democrats. And you know we’ll see how that district feels, whether they want to make a change or keep going in a similar direction,” said Kupec.
When Mitchell resigns, the Senate will be tied at 33-33 until a special election is held to fill her seat.
