Mike Lindell, founder of MyPillow, holds a lead in Republican primary polls for Minnesota governor, setting up a clash within the state's GOP days before the Aug. 11 primary. President Donald Trump has endorsed Lindell, creating tension with party leaders who fear his candidacy could cost them the November general election.
Trump's endorsement bypassed Kendall Qualls, the candidate chosen by the state party convention. The move underscores Trump's continued pull over local party structures, even when it runs against established preferences.
Republican concerns about Lindell run deeper than the convention snub. Trump lost Minnesota in both of his presidential runs. His administration also enacted Medicaid cuts and oversaw an immigration enforcement surge that resulted in two observer deaths in the state.
Republican political strategist Preya Samsundar said the dynamic was not surprising. "It's really not shocking to see that he has bucked the party in their endorsement process by choosing someone that he's got a close, personal relationship with," Samsundar said. She added that it was "more surprising that he did not choose a candidate who had an ability to win statewide."
State party officials have actively questioned Lindell's eligibility. Party chair Alex Plechash raised questions about Lindell's residency. A former party leader also recirculated allegations of physical abuse against a former girlfriend.
Lindell has denied these claims, asserting his residency is in order. He called the actions a "coordinated attack" that began after he secured Trump's endorsement. Lindell has also faced defamation lawsuits from voting machine companies over his denials of the 2020 election results; one case has settled, while another remains ongoing.
At a recent appearance at the annual Farmfest trade show, Lindell set himself apart from other candidates. While others wore jeans and T-shirts, Lindell arrived in a dark suit and red tie and emphasized his direct access to the White House. "I have an advantage over everyone up here," he told attendees. "I can call up and work with the president of the United States."
His appeal resonates with voters like Mary Jo Kukacka, who picked up a Lindell yard sign. Kukacka cited Trump's approval and described Lindell as an "honest individual" who is "not your typical politician, promising you all kinds of stuff and not delivering."
Qualls, a former artillery officer, pitched a different message. He spoke about needing "different leadership" and bringing in "special forces" when conventional approaches fail.
Plechash said he fears the likely Democratic-Farmer-Labor nominee, Amy Klobuchar, would defeat Lindell in November. The Aug. 11 primary will show whether Lindell's alignment with Trump can overcome the internal party resistance and the state's track record against him.
