Mike Lindell, the CEO of MyPillow, has formally initiated a bid to challenge Tim Walz for the governorship of Minnesota. On Wednesday, he registered the “Mike Lindell for Governor” committee with the Minnesota Campaign Finance Board, marking the beginning of a potential campaign against the incumbent governor, who is seeking a third term in the 2026 election.
Lindell, known for his strong support of former President Donald Trump, stated, “I am going to announce either way on December 11, 2024,” indicating that his decision regarding a full campaign launch will be revealed then. While he has not confirmed his candidacy, the filing signals serious intent to enter the race. He expressed confidence in his position, claiming he has polling data suggesting favorable outcomes in hypothetical match-ups.
Should Lindell proceed, he will join a competitive field of Republican candidates. This includes Minnesota House Speaker Lisa Demuth, 2022 nominee Scott Jensen, State Representative Kristin Robbins, businessman Kendall Qualls, and attorney Chris Madel. The dynamics of the Republican primary could shift significantly if Lindell secures a strong endorsement from Trump, a sought-after asset among the candidates.
Governor Walz’s campaign may face challenges given his recent political history. He is seeking re-election shortly after losing as Kamala Harris‘s vice presidential running mate in the 2024 election. Additionally, Walz has faced scrutiny for his administration’s handling of various issues, including public unrest during his tenure, which could be leveraged by Republican challengers.
If successful, Walz would make history as the first Minnesota governor to win three consecutive four-year terms. Previous governor Orville Freeman secured three straight two-year terms in the 1950s, but the political landscape has changed significantly since then.
As the election cycle progresses, the Republican candidates, including Lindell, will likely focus on Walz’s record, presenting a unified front against his administration. The outcome of this primary could shape Minnesota’s political future significantly, depending on voter sentiment and campaign strategies leading into the election season.
