Mike Lindell has stepped down as CEO of MyPillow to focus exclusively on his campaign for governor of Minnesota, the company announced Tuesday. Lindell, who founded the pillow manufacturer in 2004, reduced his ownership stake to a minority position and will remain on MyPillow’s board of directors. James Furlong, a former MyPillow director, has been named the company’s new chief executive.
Lindell’s departure comes days before Minnesota’s Republican gubernatorial primary, with early voting already underway ahead of the August 11 election. In a statement, Lindell said his decision reflects his commitment to serving Minnesota, stating: “After 22 years of leading MyPillow, I know the company is ready for its next chapter and I know Minnesota cannot wait.”
Residency and campaign law concerns
The announcement follows questions raised by the Minnesota Republican Party regarding Lindell’s constitutional residency status for gubernatorial candidates. The GOP requested Secretary of State Steve Simon clarify the rules, citing potential concerns over Lindell’s domicile. Lindell responded in a statement to WCCO, calling the inquiry “a lie” and alleging political motivations behind the scrutiny. The Republican Party has not publicly specified which candidate they favor but has previously endorsed Kendall Qualls, while House Speaker Lisa Demuth remains a primary contender.
Separately, Lindell has faced allegations of violating campaign laws after distributing pillows promoting his candidacy at a July Fourth parade. The Minnesota Campaign Finance and Public Disclosure Board has not yet issued a ruling on the matter.
Campaign dynamics and political context
Lindell launched his gubernatorial campaign earlier this year and has since secured an endorsement from former President Donald Trump. According to a SurveyUSA/KSTP poll, Lindell was already the leading Republican candidate when Trump’s endorsement was announced. The winner of the August 11 primary will likely face Democratic Senator Amy Klobuchar in the November general election, as she is the presumptive Democratic nominee.
MyPillow, which Lindell founded in 2004, grew into a nationally recognized brand through extensive television advertising and direct marketing. Lindell’s political activism, particularly his vocal support for Trump, has been a defining aspect of his public profile in recent years.