Mike Lindell, CEO of MyPillow, has received an endorsement from President Donald Trump for Minnesota’s governor race. Trump announced his support ahead of the state’s August primary election, highlighting Lindell’s vocal backing during the 2020 presidential election fraud claims.
Lindell faces competition in the Republican primary. Among those vying for the nomination are Minnesota House Speaker Lisa Demuth and businessman Kendall Qualls. The winner is expected to challenge Democratic Senator Amy Klobuchar in November. Klobuchar leads the Democratic primary following Governor Tim Walz’s decision not to seek a third term.
In a Truth Social post, Trump praised Lindell, saying he is “one of America’s greatest and most hardworking Patriots.” He added that Lindell “truly loves Minnesota” and that “nobody has sacrificed more than Mike Lindell in fighting for our country, especially when it comes to Election Integrity.”
Walz’s withdrawal from the race came amidst criticism over his handling of a fraud scandal. The state became the center of the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement, further magnifying the election’s focus on immigration. The fatal shooting of two American citizens by immigration officers in Minneapolis earlier this year brought immigration issues to the forefront.
Trump’s endorsement may pose a challenge for Republicans hoping to secure the governor’s seat. Larry Jacobs, a political scientist at the University of Minnesota, described Lindell as “the most unpopular Republican candidate” among independents, making Trump’s intervention a potential setback for Republicans who haven’t won a gubernatorial race in two decades.
Polls show Lindell in a tight race with other Republican candidates. A Minnesota Private Business Council survey from late June showed Demuth leading with 34% support, Qualls with 28%, and Lindell with 24%. Another poll by SurveyUSA placed Lindell ahead with 27%, compared to Demuth’s 22% and Qualls’ 17%, with significant portions of voters still undecided.
As the Republican primary unfolds, Demuth expressed her intent to unite party factions and secure a win in November. Qualls emphasized the importance of Minnesota Republican support over national endorsements.
Lindell’s popularity in a general election match-up looks weaker compared to other potential Republican candidates. Polls indicate Klobuchar holds a significant lead over Lindell, while Demuth and Qualls fare slightly better in their match-ups against the Democratic senator.
Lindell’s history from founding MyPillow in 2009 to becoming a prominent Trump ally during the 2016 election is noted. Legal challenges persist over his unfounded claims about the 2020 election, which affected him financially and led to MyPillow being dropped by major retailers.
Immigration issues have reshaped Minnesota’s political landscape. Republican accusations against Walz over inadequate scandal response shifted attention to immigration enforcement that saw deployment of Border Patrol agents in Minnesota. The fatal shootings and increased federal presence grew public opposition against Trump’s policies.
Minnesota remains a key target for Republicans, given its light blue status. Despite consistent Democratic wins in presidential races, the state has seen narrow margins, as seen in recent elections. Republicans aim to change this in the upcoming elections.
Trump’s approval ratings in Minnesota could influence outcomes. A Civiqs poll showed a low approval rating of 32% for Trump in the state, indicating potential Democratic advantages if midterms follow historical trends.
These developments underline the competitive nature of the Minnesota governor’s race. Endorsements and public sentiment will play crucial roles in shaping the election dynamics.