Minnesota State Sen. Nicole Mitchell will resign by August 4 after her felony burglary conviction related to a break-in at her stepmother’s home.

Mitchell Convicted of Felony Burglary, Announces Resignation

Minnesota State Senator Nicole Mitchell is set to resign from her seat following her conviction on felony burglary charges related to a 2024 break-in at her stepmother’s residence. Mitchell, 51, who represents State Senate District 47 in the Democratic Farm-to-Labor Party (DFL), will formally vacate her position by August 4, as confirmed by her attorney and reported by the Associated Press.

The conviction stems from an incident on April 22, 2024, when Mitchell entered the Detroit Lakes home of her stepmother, Carol Mitchell. According to police bodycam footage, she told officers she was “just trying to get some of my dad’s things.” During her arrest, she candidly admitted, “Clearly, I’m not good at this.” Mitchell was also found guilty of a second felony for possession of burglary tools.

At her trial, Mitchell acknowledged trespassing but insisted she did not intend to steal anything. She claimed her purpose was to retrieve her late father’s ashes and other items, alleging that Carol Mitchell would not relinquish them. Additionally, she testified she was concerned about her stepmother’s well-being, citing Carol’s Alzheimer’s disease as a factor in her actions.

Calls for Swift Resignation From Senate Leadership

The conviction quickly led to bipartisan calls for her departure. Minnesota Senate Majority Leader Erin Murphy, a fellow DFL member, urged Mitchell to fulfill her previous pledge to resign if convicted. “Senator Mitchell has been afforded due process, a trial by a jury of her peers, and that jury has delivered a verdict. The case’s resolution brings clarity to the situation,” Murphy stated, emphasizing the importance of maintaining public trust in state government.

Republican Senate Leader Mark Johnson called for Mitchell’s immediate resignation rather than allowing her to remain in office through early August. “Senator Mitchell was convicted of two felonies; she doesn’t get to give the Senate two weeks’ notice,” Johnson argued, suggesting that political considerations delayed her exit. He accused Democrats of keeping Mitchell in office to secure her vote on key legislative measures.

Mitchell is expected to complete her outstanding legislative duties before her departure. As of publication, she has not publicly commented on her conviction or upcoming resignation.

Implications for Public Trust and State Governance

The high-profile case underscores ongoing debates over accountability for elected officials and the standards to which they are held. With both Democratic and Republican leaders calling for swift action, Mitchell’s resignation aims to restore confidence in the Minnesota State Senate. The process of filling her seat will proceed according to state law, and her departure may prompt further scrutiny of ethical standards within public office.

As Mitchell’s resignation takes effect, legislative leaders have reiterated their commitment to focusing on the needs of Minnesotan families and communities. The episode highlights the legal and ethical responsibilities that come with public service and the expectation that those in power act transparently and with integrity.