Minnesota businessman Mike Lindell has filed official paperwork to run for Minnesota governor in 2026, taking a major step toward launching a Republican campaign.
Lindell said he is “98 percent sure I’m going to,” though he has not formally announced his candidacy. An aide suggested a full campaign launch could come on December 11.
Who Is Mike Lindell?
Lindell, widely known as the founder of MyPillow, became a prominent national figure after aligning himself with Donald Trump and promoting disproven claims of 2020 election fraud.
In September, a federal judge ruled he defamed Smartmatic, saying Lindell falsely claimed the company’s voting machines helped rig the election.
If he enters the race, Lindell would join an increasingly crowded GOP field seeking to unseat two-term Democratic Governor Tim Walz. Without an early party endorsement, the race could head to an August primary.
The Democratic Governors Association criticized Lindell, calling him a “sleazy businessman” with “an extreme agenda.” Spokesperson Izzi Levy said: “His entrance into the race is a bitter pill-ow for Minnesota Republicans to swallow.”
Some Republicans have expressed concern that Lindell’s involvement could split the party or weaken its chances of winning in 2026.
Lindell’s Legal and Business Troubles
Lindell’s company MyPillow, based in the Twin Cities, has faced significant financial and legal strain.
Earlier this year, a court ordered the company to pay nearly $780,000 to shipping giant DHL following a contract dispute, according to CBS News. His lawsuits challenging the 2020 election results have repeatedly failed.
If Lindell formally launches his campaign next week, he becomes one of several Republicans vying for a shot at challenging Governor Walz.
