Candidates vie for Minnesota Senate seat vacancy

A Minnesota senator has resigned following accusations of seeking sex from a minor. Justin Eichorn, a Republican, held the Senate seat in District 6. His resignation came just before a vote on his expulsion due to a federal charge of attempted coercion or enticement of a minor. The allegations claim he tried to meet someone he thought was 17 but was actually an undercover officer. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz is expected to announce a special election for Eichorn's seat soon. State law requires that the election be held quickly to ensure representation for the district. A new senator could be in place by mid to late April, with the legislative session ending by May 19. Several candidates have already declared their intention to run for the open seat. Keri Heintzeman, a Republican who worked on President Trump's 2024 campaign, is running on a platform of fiscal responsibility and government transparency. On the Democratic side, Emily LeClaire is also running, promising to represent all constituents regardless of party. Former Minnesota GOP chairwoman Jennifer Carnahan, now the mayor of Nisswa, has joined the race as well. She emphasizes the need for someone who understands the struggles of everyday life, like rising costs of living. Eichorn's legal troubles continue, as he recently made his first court appearance. The judge set conditions for his release, which involve waiting for a spot in a halfway house. Federal prosecutors are seeking to keep him in jail until trial, citing concerns over his actions related to evidence and a gun in his apartment.