Ex-senator Justin Eichorn charged with soliciting minor for sex

In March 2023, Justin Eichorn, a former Republican state senator from Minnesota, resigned following his arrest during a police sting operation in Bloomington. He was charged with attempted coercion and enticement of a minor for sexual purposes after allegedly responding to an online ad. Investigators later conducted a search of his apartment, where they discovered a handgun, cash, and a device that had been reset to erase its contents, alongside evidence suggesting he attempted to obstruct the investigation. As a result, federal prosecutors sought to prevent his pretrial release due to fears he posed a risk to minors, highlighting concerns about his potential to victimize others. Despite initially being set for release to a halfway house, a judge intervened following fresh allegations of deceit concerning his possession of a firearm. The court proceedings leading up to his detention have drawn significant media attention and public scrutiny, ultimately culminating in a special election called by Governor Tim Walz to fill Eichorn's vacated Senate seat. Set for April 29, 2023, this election marks a significant chapter in Minnesota's political landscape as candidates from various parties emerge, amid ongoing discussions regarding legislative priorities ahead of the session's conclusion.