Mitchell’s attorneys claim she has visited the Detroit Lakes home countless times over the years, and even had a key to the house.

Contradicting accounts

There are contradictions between Mitchell’s statements in the charges and the statements she’s made online and through her attorneys. But her stepmother also has a different account of what happened.

In an interview with the Associated Press, the stepmother said she is afraid of Mitchell. Most of her husband’s remains were buried, she told the AP, but she sent Mitchell a small container containing some ashes.

And in the 911 call, the stepmother said she tripped over someone who was lying on the floor of her room, who then ran into the basement. By that account, it’s unclear how an intruder got into the house.

The stepmother now has a restraining order against Mitchell. As part of the conditions of her release from her jail, the senator is not allowed to contact her stepmother.

Political consequences

The DFL has controlled state government since last year, but it hinges on a narrow majority in the Senate.

With 34 DFL seats to 33 GOP seats, Mitchell’s arrest may threaten their margin, making it impossible to pass partisan legislation.

Mitchell hasn’t been seen at the Capitol since her arrest, and she hasn’t participated in any Senate votes. Senate Majority Leader Erin Murphy, DFL-St. Paul, told reporters Wednesday that she’d consider allowing Mitchell to vote remotely for the rest of the session.

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