Republican primary results highlight limits of Trump endorsement in Minnesota

2026 Minnesota Gubernatorial Election·Latest event August 12, 2026

Aug 12

Republican primary results highlight limits of Trump endorsement in Minnesota

Lindell's defeat in the gubernatorial primary suggests a shift in the influence of Trump's endorsement within the state. While Trump provided public backing, Lindell failed to secure the nomination against House Speaker Lisa Demuth. This outcome was a key takeaway from the primary election, which finalized the Republican ticket for the fall. Demuth will now face Democratic nominee Amy Klobuchar in the general election. The results in Minnesota mirrored struggles for other Trump-backed candidates in recent contests.

Trump-Endorsed Mike Lindell Goes Down In GOP PrimaryMike Lindell and Darline Graham Nordone show limits to Trump's endorsement powerBig takeaways from Minnesota's primary election results

Aug 12

Lisa Demuth wins Minnesota Republican gubernatorial primary, defeating Mike Lindell

Minnesota House Speaker Lisa Demuth won the Republican primary to succeed Governor Tim Walz. She advances to the November general election. Her victory came despite Mike Lindell's campaign focus on his ties to Trump, who endorsed the MyPillow founder in July. Demuth pulled ahead in polling earlier this year and maintained her lead through the August primary. During the campaign, Demuth characterized a potential Klobuchar victory as a third term for Walz. She ultimately defeated both the Trump-backed Lindell and the candidate supported by the state Republican Party.

Minnesota House speaker Lisa Demuth wins GOP gubernatorial primary to replace Tim Walz in NovemberMike Lindell touts Trump ties in race for governor of Minnesota, where Trump has lostLisa Demuth pulls ahead in Minnesota GOP gubernatorial race

Aug 5

Mike Lindell Resigns as MyPillow CEO to Focus on Minnesota Gubernatorial Campaign

Lindell announced his departure from the company he founded after 22 years to dedicate himself to the Republican primary. This move follows Trump's endorsement of the businessman in the race for governor. Lindell stated he is stepping down to prioritize his political efforts full-time. The campaign faces early scrutiny regarding Lindell's eligibility and standing in the state. Reports indicate that while seeking the state's highest office, Lindell is not currently registered to vote in Minnesota. Despite this, Trump's support has positioned him as a prominent figure in the primary. Analysts are evaluating his chances against potential Democratic opponents as he transitions from business executive to full-time candidate.

Mike Lindell resigns as MyPillow CEO to focus on campaignMyPillow's Mike Lindell is stepping down after 22 years as CEOMyPillow Founder Not Registered to Vote in State He Wants to Lead

Jul 15

Trump endorses Mike Lindell for Minnesota Governor

Trump previously stated the MyPillow CEO deserved the position but initially withheld a formal backing. Lindell entered the race in January, campaigning on his ability to solve problems and focusing on election integrity. Recent reports from CBS News and The Guardian confirmed the endorsement. Lindell currently leads the Republican primary field while focusing on policy issues.

Trump endorses MyPillow founder Mike Lindell in Minnesota governor's raceTrump endorses MyPillow's Mike Lindell in race for Minnesota governorTrump stops short of endorsing MyPillow's Mike Lindell for Minnesota governor despite saying he deserves the job