MINNEAPOLIS, MN — MyPillow CEO Mike Lindell has officially launched his campaign for the 2026 Minnesota gubernatorial race, seeking the Republican nomination to challenge incumbent Governor Tim Walz. The announcement, made Thursday, follows weeks of speculation and the filing of paperwork last week to enter the race.
“After prayerful consideration and hearing from so many of you across our great state, I’ve made the decision to enter the 2026 gubernatorial race,” Lindell said on social media. “I’m still standing and I’ll stand for you.”
What Happened: Mike Lindell Joins a Crowded Republican Field
Lindell, a well-known ally of former President Donald Trump, is known for his controversial claims regarding the 2020 election, which he has repeatedly asserted was rigged despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary. He now joins a crowded field of GOP contenders vying for the nomination to face off against Governor Tim Walz, a Democrat seeking an unprecedented third consecutive term.
The other Republican hopefuls include State House Republican Speaker Lisa Demuth, 2022 gubernatorial nominee Dr. Scott Jensen, who lost to Walz in the 2022 midterms, Minnesota Rep. Kristin Robbins, Kendall Qualls, and defense attorney Chris Madel.
Who Is Mike Lindell?
Lindell is best known for founding MyPillow, the company behind his popular line of pillows, sheets, and other sleep-related products. A staunch supporter of President Trump, Lindell became a controversial figure in the political realm after he publicly pushed debunked theories about election fraud in 2020. He also founded the social media platform FrankSpeech, which promoted conspiracy theories related to the election.
In addition to his political involvement, Lindell has faced legal challenges, including defamation lawsuits for his false claims against election technology companies like Dominion Voting Systems and Smartmatic. He has also been involved in business-related legal battles, including a recent ruling that MyPillow owed hundreds of thousands of dollars to shipping company DHL.
Campaign Priorities: Aiming for Change
Lindell’s campaign website outlines his priorities, which include addressing what he describes as rampant fraud in Minnesota under Tim Walz’s leadership. He has also pledged to tackle issues such as “failing school systems,” rising property taxes, and immigration policy.
“Those who know me know I’m up to the task,” Lindell said in a campaign video, referencing his business acumen and his dedication to fighting fraud. He also reiterated his belief that Walz had been either “grossly negligent, incompetent, or complicit” in allowing fraud to take place during the 2020 election.
Public and Political Reactions: Mixed Support
Lindell’s candidacy has already drawn mixed reactions. While he enjoys strong support from certain segments of the Republican base, others, including Republican strategist Amy Frederiksen, have expressed doubts about his viability as a candidate to defeat Governor Walz. “I think for him, it’s more about the headlines. I really do. I don’t know anyone saying, ‘You know who we need? Mike Lindell,’” Frederiksen stated.
Despite his controversial background, Lindell’s political outsider status is a trait that has resonated with some GOP voters, especially those disillusioned with the political establishment. Minnesota has a history of electing political outsiders, most notably former Governor Jesse Ventura, who won a surprising victory in 1998. However, Republicans have not won a statewide race in Minnesota in two decades.
What Happens Next: GOP Primary Looms
Lindell will first need to secure the Republican Party’s nomination at the GOP endorsing convention next spring. If he does not receive the endorsement, he and other candidates will have the opportunity to compete in the party’s primary election in August.
With multiple candidates vying for the Republican nod, the race for Minnesota governor is expected to intensify in the coming months. If Lindell can consolidate enough support within the GOP, he could become a formidable contender in the general election against Walz.
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
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