Mike Lindell steps down as MyPillow CEO to focus on Minnesota governor campaign

(Northern News Now) – Mike Lindell is stepping down as CEO of MyPillow to focus on his campaign for Minnesota governor, according to CBS News.

Lindell announced Tuesday that Lindell also reduced his ownership stake to a minority interest. He will remain on MyPillow’s board of directors.

Lindell founded the company in 2004 and led it for 22 years. James Furlong, who served as a MyPillow director from 2004 to 2019, will take over as CEO.

According to CBS News, Lindell said the change will allow him to devote his full time and attention to the gubernatorial campaign.

The announcement comes as the Republican Party of Minnesota seeks clarification from Secretary of State Steve Simon about constitutional residency requirements for candidates. CBS News reported that Lindell disputed questions about his residency and called them politically motivated.

Lindell has also faced allegations that he violated campaign laws by distributing pillows promoting his candidacy during a Fourth of July parade, according to CBS News.

A SurveyUSA/KSTP poll showed Lindell leading the Republican field before he received an endorsement from President Donald Trump last month, CBS News reported. Kendall Qualls and Minnesota House Speaker Lisa Demuth are also seeking the Republican nomination.

Early voting is underway ahead of the Aug. 11 primary. The Republican nominee is expected to face U.S. Sen. Amy Klobuchar, the presumptive Democratic nominee, in November.

We will continue to provide updates as new information becomes available.