Mike Lindell faces campaign‑law probe over pillow giveaways in Minnesota

A Minnesota administrative law judge found probable cause that Republican gubernatorial candidate Mike Lindell may have violated state campaign‑finance law by distributing small MyPillow items at public parades. The finding was issued by Administrative Law Judge Nicholas Lienesch and the case will be forwarded to a three‑judge panel for an evidentiary hearing, with dates yet to be set.

The complaint stemmed from a Fourth of July parade in Delano, where a citizen alleged the pillow handouts constituted a prohibited monetary‑value giveaway intended to influence voters. Minnesota law bars giving away anything of value for electoral advantage. Lindell told the judge he acted within the law, noting the pillows were “little” and contained campaign literature, and said his campaign had sought guidance from the Minnesota Campaign Finance and Public Disclosure Board.

Lindell responded to the ruling by criticizing the media and the state GOP, and announced a budget proposal to eliminate Minnesota’s state income tax.