Tarantula ASSAULT Rocks Conservative Candidate

A self-proclaimed conservative U.S. Senate candidate stands convicted of hurling a live tarantula at her tenant, raising urgent questions about who truly upholds family values in American politics.

Story Highlights

Marisa Simonetti, 32, found guilty on three criminal counts including harassment and domestic assault after throwing a tarantula down basement stairs at tenant Jackie Vasquez.
Incident occurred June 2024 in Edina, Minnesota; jury deliberated less than an hour before convicting Simonetti on March 13, 2026.
Simonetti, who ran on “family values,” lost Republican endorsement and now campaigns for U.S. Senate despite the verdict.
Tenant captured video evidence while studying for bar exam, shifting power from landlord to justice system.
Sentencing set for May 1, 2026, as this bizarre case spotlights failures in candidate vetting.

Incident Details Unfold in Edina Home

On June 20, 2024, Marisa Simonetti intercepted a grocery delivery for her basement tenant, Jackie Vasquez, and refused to release the items, prompting a police call. The next day, Vasquez dialed 911 multiple times as Simonetti clanged pots and pans, cut internet access, and dismantled the basement door. Simonetti then threw a live tarantula, along with tacks and nails, down the stairs toward Vasquez, who was studying for the bar exam. Video footage captured by Vasquez documented the harassment.

Escalation from Landlord Dispute

The conflict stemmed from Vasquez renting Simonetti’s Edina basement for $1,500 through Airbnb, with Simonetti occupying the upper floor. Vasquez reported a spider infestation and suggested pest control for large spiders, irritating Simonetti. As a self-described conservative running on family values, Simonetti’s actions escalated into criminal behavior. Police arrested her in June 2024 on assault charges after the tenant’s repeated 911 calls highlighted the severity of the threats to her safety and studies.

Swift Jury Conviction and Party Rejection

A Hennepin County jury convicted Simonetti on March 13, 2026, of gross misdemeanor harassment, misdemeanor domestic assault, and disorderly conduct after deliberating less than an hour. She represented herself at trial. The 3rd Congressional District Republicans withdrew endorsement following her arrest, stating she does not reflect their values and has embarrassed the party. They cited additional concerning information beyond the tarantula incident.

Simonetti lashed out on X, claiming the GOP prefers grifters over change-makers, and updated her bio to “Tarantula Tossing Candidate” with a spider emoji. Despite the guilty verdict, she presses on with her U.S. Senate campaign.

Consequences for Campaign and Values

Sentencing looms on May 1, 2026, with potential jail time, fines, or probation facing Simonetti. This conviction undermines her political viability and spotlights vetting gaps in candidate selection. For conservatives prioritizing family values, individual responsibility, and rule of law—core principles under President Trump’s leadership—such erratic conduct erodes trust. Vasquez gains legal vindication after enduring fear and disruption to her bar exam preparation.

The case drew national attention for its oddity, involving a political hopeful using a live animal as a weapon in a landlord-tenant clash. It underscores risks in shared rental spaces like Airbnb and the need for parties to screen candidates rigorously to protect reputations and principles. Republicans demonstrated resolve by distancing from behavior contradicting limited government and personal accountability ideals.