A special election to replace former State Senator Justin Eichorn’s seat took place on Tuesday.

Republican Keri Heintzeman defeated Democrat Denise Slipy to secure the open seat in Senate District 6.

Earlier this month, Heintzeman won the Republican primary for the seat while Slipy ran uncontested.

As reported by 5 EYEWITNESS NEWS, Eichorn was arrested less than a month ago and charged with attempting to solicit a teenage girl for prostitution. He then resigned from the State Senate.

Political experts who spoke with 5 EYEWITNESS NEWS say the region, which covers parts of Cass, Crow Wing and Itasca Counties, was likely to be represented by the Republican candidate.

Heintzeman will have a quick turnaround, as the regular legislative session is set to end in less than three weeks.