Mike Lindell has announced that he is stepping down as the CEO of MyPillow.
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The founder of the pillow manufacturer shared the news yesterday, Aug. 4. However, the 65-year-old isn't exactly retiring. We have the details below.
Why Is Mike Lindell Stepping Down as CEO of MyPillow?
As reported by CBS News, Lindell said he's stepping down from the company he founded in 2004 so he can focus on his campaign for governor of Minnesota.
"After 22 years of leading MyPillow, I know the company is ready for its next chapter, and I know Minnesota cannot wait," Lindell said. "This decision is not about walking away. It is about stepping forward to serve. I am putting Minnesota above myself, my title, and my business interests so I can give this campaign and the people of our state my full time, energy, and attention."
Taking over for Lindell is James Furlong. He served as MyPillow's director from 2004 through 2019. Lindell also reduced his ownership stake in his company to a minority. He remains a member of MyPillow's Board of Directors.
Isn't Minnesota's Primary Election Next Week?
The primary for the Minnesota governor's race takes place this Tuesday, Aug. 11. Early voting is already underway, so it's not clear why Lindell is stepping down now. Despite winning an endorsement from President Donald Trump, the businessman is facing an uphill battle to win the Republican nomination.
Last week, the Republican Party of Minnesota requested that Secretary of State Steve Simon clarify the residency rules for candidates. Lindell has identified himself as a resident of Texas in the past. The rules state that the governor has to be a bona fide Minnesota resident for a year.
"It's a lie. It's a hit job. He wants his darling, Lisa Demuth. That's who he wants, who they had handpicked by Alex [Plechash, Chairman of the Minnesota Republican Party]," said Lindell in an interview.
Additionally, Lindell was recently accused of violating campaign laws because he gave away MyPillows promoting his candidacy at a Fourth of July parade.
Despite these obstacles, Lindell is the front-runner to win the Republican primary. He is running against Demuth, the Speaker of the Minnesota House of Representatives, and Kendall Qualls, who the state's Republican Party has endorsed.
Should Lindell win, he will likely face Senator Amy Klobuchar, who is the presumptive favorite to win the Democratic race.
