MyPillow CEO Mike Lindell Launches Bid for Minnesota Governor

Mike Lindell is running for Minnesota governor. The MyPillow founder announced his campaign this week. He will seek the Republican nomination to challenge incumbent Democrat Tim Walz. The election will be held this November.

Lindell is a prominent supporter of former President Donald Trump. He has promoted false claims about the 2020 election. His entry adds a high-profile name to the race. According to the Associated Press, Lindell vows to campaign aggressively across the state.

A Candidate Touting Business and Resilience

Lindell says he has a record of solving problems. He told the AP he can help fight addiction. He also promised to support businesses and address homelessness. The 64-year-old started his pillow company in Minnesota in 2009.

He faced significant legal and financial trouble afterwards. This stemmed from his promotion of election conspiracy theories. Lindell claims he has now put those problems behind him. He frames his business challenges as a strength for his campaign.

Minnesota’s Unpredictable Political Landscape

No Republican has won statewide office in Minnesota since 2006. Yet the state’s voters are known for surprises. They elected former wrestler Jesse Ventura as governor in 1998. This history provides a unique backdrop for Lindell’s outsider bid.

Trump’s endorsement could be key in the GOP primary. Several candidates are competing for the nomination. Lindell is friends with Trump but said his campaign does not depend on his support. The outcome will shape the Republican challenge to Walz.

Lindell faces serious legal liabilities from his election claims. A federal judge ruled he defamed voting machine company Smartmatic. He was also ordered to pay millions in a separate defamation case. These issues will likely be a major focus of the campaign.

The Minnesota governor race now features a nationally known, controversial figure. Mike Lindell’s campaign will test the state’s political climate. His bid promises to be one of the most closely watched contests this year.

Thought you’d like to know

Q1: Who is Mike Lindell running against?

Mike Lindell is seeking the Republican nomination to run against the current Democratic governor, Tim Walz. Walz is expected to be nominated by his party for another term in office.

Q2: What are Lindell’s main campaign issues?

He has highlighted fighting addiction, supporting businesses, and addressing homelessness. He often cites his experience as a businessman and problem-solver as his main qualification.

Q3: Has a Republican won in Minnesota recently?

No Republican has won a statewide election in Minnesota since 2006. However, the state has a history of electing unconventional candidates, like former governor Jesse Ventura.

Q4: What legal problems does Lindell have?

He has been found liable in defamation lawsuits related to his false 2020 election claims. He owes millions in damages and faces another lawsuit seeking “nine-figure” damages from Smartmatic.

Q5: Will Donald Trump endorse Lindell?

Lindell says he is friends with Trump but does not know if he will receive an endorsement. He stated that his campaign is not contingent on receiving Trump’s support.