MyPillow founder and CEO Mike Lindell is running for governor of Minnesota as a Republican candidate in the 2026 election [1].

The candidacy marks a high-profile entry into the state's executive race, bolstered by the endorsement of former President Donald Trump reported on July 17 [1, 2]. This alignment suggests a strategy to consolidate the Republican base through a candidate with significant national visibility and a direct link to the former president.

Lindell is seeking the Republican nomination to lead the state [1]. The endorsement from Donald Trump is intended to strengthen his campaign as he navigates the primary process [1, 2]. While the campaign focuses on Minnesota, reports have surfaced regarding Lindell's legal residency and voting status [3].

According to reporting, Lindell is currently registered to vote in Texas [3]. This registration status creates a potential point of contention regarding his eligibility or residency requirements for the Minnesota gubernatorial race [3]. The campaign has not yet provided a detailed response to the residency claims in the face of the 2026 [1] election cycle.

Lindell has spent recent years as a prominent figure in national political discourse, often focusing on election integrity and conservative media. His transition from business executive to gubernatorial candidate in Minnesota represents a shift toward direct electoral politics. The race will likely center on whether his national profile and Trump's backing can outweigh questions regarding his residency and the specific needs of Minnesota voters.

“Mike Lindell is running for governor of Minnesota as a Republican candidate”

The entry of Mike Lindell into the Minnesota governor's race highlights the continued influence of Donald Trump over Republican primary dynamics. However, the discrepancy between his candidacy in Minnesota and his voter registration in Texas could provide legal or political openings for opponents to challenge his candidacy based on residency requirements.